Lucien Mahovo is on the brink of re-establishing himself in Norwich City’s first team following a challenging seven-month recovery from injury. The young midfielder’s promising start at Carrow Road, which saw him earn a place in the first-team squad under manager Johannes Hoff Thorup, was unexpectedly interrupted by a series of injuries.
Mahovo initially suffered a knee issue during training, which later developed into a quad tear, ultimately derailing his debut season and denying him crucial pre-season training with new head coach Liam Manning. This setback coincided with Norwich strengthening their left flank by signing Jeffery Schlupp, complicating Mahovo’s path back to the starting eleven. Read more about Norwich Stumble in Derby Defeat to Ipswich Town.
Despite these challenges, Mahovo has begun to make his mark, coming off the bench in recent matches against West Bromwich Albion and Ipswich Town. The 20-year-old views his return to play at Carrow Road as a significant milestone, one he is eager to embrace after a prolonged period of recovery. Read more about Gunn Weighs Early Exit as Forest Bench Beckons.
"It's been a long journey with ups and downs in the rehab process, so I'm just grateful to be back and help the team the best I can," Mahovo stated. "I was enjoying my football last season, and it got cut short, but it just gave me more hunger and determination for this season to play as many games as I possibly can."
Mahovo's initial promise was evident, showcasing an ability to break lines, blend physicality with skill, and exhibit confidence on the ball. These attributes earned him his place in the first team—a goal he worked diligently to achieve. However, just eight matches into his senior career, injuries served as a stark reminder of the hurdles young players must navigate in their pursuit of a professional football career.
“It was tough because football is the one thing that I love and it's something I want to do every single day,” he reflected. “Not being able to do it, it does sting a little bit, but you've got a great group of lads and the coaching staff all there to help you get through it."
Mahovo credits the unwavering support he received during his rehabilitation for facilitating his return to full fitness. “I don't feel like I've missed a beat really, and that is down to them and what they've provided for me. I feel like I'm at 100%. I'm back now and hopefully I can stay here for a long time.”
Having joined Norwich from Notts County in League Two last summer, Mahovo's rise at Carrow Road has been rapid. His impressive performances for the development squad earned him the opportunity to train with the first team, culminating in his debut against Sheffield United in January—the club that had previously let him go.
During his initial spell in the first team, Mahovo started five matches, contributing to three victories for Norwich. Nevertheless, he is acutely aware of the importance of maintaining that momentum. “You've got to prove it every single time you step out on the pitch and be as good as you can,” he emphasised. “It's not something where I look at my performances last year and think that, yes, that's good enough.”
With Manning’s tactical approach complementing his strengths, Mahovo is keen to display his skills and aid Norwich’s aspirations this season. “I think the manager's style suits me, and it's just about getting back and playing as many games as I possibly can now because I feel like the system suits me, and I can definitely do a job.” Read more about Manning Makes Key Change as Canaries Target Ipswich Win.
As Norwich seeks to improve upon a sluggish start to their Championship campaign, Mahovo’s return could be crucial. “I want to play as many games as I possibly can, so I have to play well to stay in that team and keep people out of it. I'm always hungry and I want to be the best player I can be.”