Mark Attanasio, the majority shareholder of Norwich City, has set a clear ambition for the club as they prepare for the 2026/27 season. The focus is not merely on securing a play-off spot; Attanasio has stressed the importance of targeting automatic promotion. This shift in ambition follows a challenging season where the Canaries found themselves at the bottom of the Championship table, but recent performances under manager Philippe Clement have sparked renewed hope. Read more about Clement Demands More as Canaries Miss Play-Offs.
Norwich concluded the previous campaign in ninth place after a disheartening defeat to Hull City on the final day. However, many supporters are optimistic as they look forward to a pivotal summer that could lay the groundwork for a stronger challenge next season. In an interview with BBC Radio Norfolk’s Canary Call, Attanasio stated, “Our goal is more than just the play-offs. I must be careful when I talk like this, because I am superstitious and it can come back to bite you. But when we talk internally, our focus is on how to get the team into the top two next year.” Read more about Clement's Canaries Target Victory in Season Finale at Hull.
Achieving this goal will not be without its challenges. Attanasio acknowledges the fierce competition from teams potentially relegated from the Premier League, as well as those vying for promotion at the top of the Championship. Nevertheless, he remains optimistic about the club's trajectory, asserting, “The two extra spots help us, of course, but we want to make sure we put ourselves in a strong position, and everything is directed towards that.” Read more about Clement Reassures on McLean's Fitness Ahead of World Cup.
Clement’s impact since taking charge has been significant. The team’s performance has improved markedly, averaging 1.81 points per game under his leadership. If this form continues throughout a full season, Norwich would be well-positioned for automatic promotion. This resurgence has eased some pressure on sporting director Ben Knapper, who faced scrutiny following previous managerial decisions.
Attanasio has expressed admiration for Clement's contributions, suggesting that the Belgian manager has brought a unique quality to the squad. “You do have to pinch yourself a little. You need a bit of good fortune in sport, and we were fortunate to connect with Philippe and bring him in,” he remarked. This connection is crucial as the club approaches the summer transfer window, with plans to strengthen the squad.
Knapper and the recruitment team are already hard at work, strategising to ensure they make the right signings that align with Clement’s vision. Attanasio highlighted the extensive planning involved, saying, “A lot of planning... Ben and the recruitment team have been working for weeks now, looking ahead to the summer. And that has been a very, very strong and aligned relationship.”
Changes at Carrow Road have fostered a renewed sense of unity and purpose, with Clement's management style resonating positively with players and fans alike. Attanasio acknowledged the support from the community, stating, “I want to thank our supporters for that,” reflecting on the warm welcome that Clement and his family have received.
As Norwich City gears up for the upcoming season, Attanasio’s commitment to a long-term vision is clear. “Whether that happens next year or later, it is a building focus, and that focus will be unwavering,” he asserted. With dedicated ownership and a manager who has captured the fans' imagination, Norwich City are setting ambitious targets for the future.
The Championship landscape is evolving, with a new play-off format allowing six teams to compete for promotion. However, Attanasio remains steadfast in his aim for the top two positions, firmly placing Norwich’s ambitions in the realm of automatic promotion. With strategic moves in the transfer market, the Canaries are determined to turn their aspirations into reality.