Liam Manning, head coach of Norwich City, has provided insight into the uncertain futures of two key players, Shane Duffy and Anis Ben Slimane. As the Canaries prepare for their Championship campaign, Manning revealed that he has engaged in "difficult conversations" regarding the players' roles within the squad. Notably, both Duffy and Slimane were absent from the final pre-season friendly against NAC Breda, with Duffy watching from the stands after slipping down the central defensive hierarchy.
With Norwich's midfield options becoming increasingly competitive, Slimane, who made a permanent move to the club last January, is finding it challenging to secure a starting position. Manning acknowledged that both players could potentially leave the club this summer, emphasising the importance of maintaining an honest culture within the team. Read more about Norwich Target Jovon Makama as Deal Nears Completion.
"I think there's the possibility of that," Manning stated when discussing their futures. "I'm sure with the guys you mentioned, everybody wants to play football. If that's not happening here or not likely here, then I'm sure people will want to pursue alternative options."
Despite the potential for departures, Manning was keen to commend the positive attitudes displayed by both Duffy and Slimane during training sessions. "Until anything definite happens, we'll keep working with them. We'll keep pushing with them. Their attitude in training has been top, and we'll see how that plays out," he remarked.
Manning elaborated on the nature of his discussions with the players, highlighting his commitment to transparency. "I've had a few conversations this week. I think that's really important for me," he explained. "Unfortunately, we live in a world where people are a little bit fearful of sitting down and having difficult conversations face-to-face. For me, the most important thing is that I do that." Read more about Diallo Set for Debut as Canaries Face NAC Breda.
His approach aims to foster respect through open communication, even when the news may be difficult to accept. "Me and Ben sit with the guys. We're straight. We're honest. Of course, you get the emotional side where people don't always want to hear it, but I think what they will carry is respect that you've been upfront and honest."
While neither player is on the verge of an imminent transfer, Duffy has reportedly attracted interest from other Championship clubs this summer. Manning recognised the necessity of addressing the squad size as the new season approaches. "We've obviously got a bigger squad. We've got too many bodies for a matchday squad. We had too many on the bench today," he noted.
Looking ahead, Manning anticipates that a few players may depart before the transfer window closes, reflecting on a summer marked by considerable change as Norwich prepares to face Millwall in their Championship opener. "It's not always in our control but naturally we're a bit heavy," he admitted. "We've been able to do some real productive work with the help of the owners to bring in what we have - the consequence is we've got a few too many and I'm sure in the coming weeks there'll be a few who will leave."
As Norwich aims to refine their squad, the futures of Duffy and Slimane remain in flux, but Manning's dedication to clear and honest communication will undoubtedly play a fundamental role in his management strategy going forward.