Ante Crnac's Comeback Journey
The upcoming pre-season carries added significance for Ante Crnac, as he comes under the Philippe Clement microscope for the first time.
Nearly eight months after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament rupture in City's 1-0 defeat at Derby, the Croatian forward is finally closing in on a return and preparing to work under Clement for the first time.
With the Belgian not arriving until the month after Crnac's injury, his assessment of the 22-year-old has so far been limited to video analysis and second-hand reports. The coming weeks will offer the first real opportunity to evaluate both his qualities and where he might fit within the squad jigsaw.
Crnac's Mixed Performance History
Crnac has made 52 appearances for the Canaries since his reported £8.5m move from Rakow Czestochowa in August 2024, 12 of which came under Liam Manning before his campaign was brought to a premature end.
His first season in England offered plenty of encouragement, registering 12 goal contributions across more than 3,000 minutes. However, last season proved considerably more challenging, with a sole outing on the left wing and no goal involvements in 785 minutes.
The level of regression was difficult to overlook, but context remains important. Against a backdrop of tactical upheaval and dwindling confidence within the squad, it would be wrong to isolate Crnac's struggles from a period where few players emerged with their reputations enhanced.
Future Prospects Under Clement
Norwich's hierarchy continues to hold Ante Crnac in high regard. Sporting director Ben Knapper is understood to rank him among the highest-ceiling talents currently at the club, reflecting his technical ability and footballing intelligence.
Crnac's versatility is both an asset and a challenge, as he has operated as a striker, winger, and attacking midfielder. The intrigue now lies in where he fits into Clement's plans.
Clement himself acknowledged the uncertainty last month, expressing curiosity about Crnac's role and the need to test things during pre-season. For now, the primary challenge is regaining sharpness and rebuilding trust in his body after a lengthy layoff.
Crnac will hope to rediscover his rhythm quickly, as patience will be required to keep pace with Norwich's upward trajectory under Clement. For more details, visit The Pink'un.