Norwich City are grappling with a considerable challenge in their 2025/26 season following the news of a serious injury to summer signing Papa Amadou Diallo. The £4.3 million player, expected to enhance the squad's performance, is scheduled to undergo surgery for a quadriceps injury. Head coach Liam Manning confirmed that Diallo will be sidelined for an estimated three to four months during a recent press briefing.
This injury setback compounds the difficulties already faced by the Canaries, who have struggled to establish their form under Manning's leadership. The mounting concern from fans signals a pressing need for improvement, particularly with an important away match against Stoke City on the horizon. Currently, the Potters are second in the Championship, having secured four victories from their first six matches, presenting a formidable challenge for Norwich.
In addition to Diallo's absence, Manning will also be without players Ben Chrisene, Mathias Kvistgaarden, and Amankwah Forson, complicating his selection for the upcoming visit to the Bet365 Stadium. Although Kenny McLean has not participated fully in training this week, his potential availability could provide a much-needed boost.
**Kellen Fisher Acknowledges Need for Enhanced Home Performances**
Kellen Fisher, a defender for Norwich City, has openly stated that the fans at Carrow Road deserve to see improved performances from their team. This season, the Canaries have had a disappointing start at home, losing their first four matches, a feat only previously achieved once in the club's history. Their latest defeat came at the hands of newly-promoted Wrexham, who triumphed in a thrilling 3-2 contest, with Fisher remaining an unused substitute.
Fisher expressed the collective disappointment, emphasising, "At home I think it's massive, and we've all wanted to pick up more points at home so far this season. We go into the games with the aim of picking up those three points, because it's what the fans deserve."
Despite their struggles on home soil, Norwich's performances away from home have shown promise, with the team managing to collect vital points. Fisher noted, "I think we've made a good start in that adaptation, we've made a very good start away from home and we've been pleased with some of the results that we've been able to get."
On a personal level, the England Under-21 international revealed he is working to regain his top form after a pre-season marred by injury. "Hopefully now I'll be able to kick on with more minutes and put out better performances," he remarked, reflecting the team's shared ambition for improvement.
**Manning Calls for Responsibility and Enhanced Aggression**
In the wake of the disappointing loss to Wrexham, Liam Manning has emphasised the necessity for Norwich City to adopt a more aggressive approach in the Championship. The head coach has challenged his squad to take accountability for their performances, especially following the lacklustre showing that led to their recent defeat.
“It’s not something I’ve said too often about the group. I praised the behaviours at Coventry, in terms of a desire to defend the box and try and get close to people in our defensive third. But I didn’t see that,” Manning stated, indicating the need for heightened intensity.
As Norwich gears up for their match against Stoke, Manning has hinted at possible changes to the lineup. "I’ve been uber-patient, and we’re at the point we need to make changes. Shirts are up for grabs," he asserted, highlighting the urgency for the team to find its footing.
Manning recognises that injuries can significantly affect team dynamics and has urged his players to stay mentally and physically ready to step in when needed. "We need all of you. You might not be in a team this week, but next week is a different matter," he remarked, underlining the importance of squad depth in a demanding Championship season.
As Norwich City prepares for their encounter with Stoke, the focus will be on resilience and the quest to reverse their fortunes. The Canaries must dig deep and deliver a performance that resonates with their dedicated supporters.