Norwich City’s ownership team, led by Mark Attanasio and Richard Ressler, has publicly pledged their support for manager Philippe Clement as the club seeks to avoid relegation from the Championship. Currently languishing at the bottom of the league in 23rd place, the Canaries have secured only three victories from their first 18 matches, underscoring an urgent need for reinforcements. Read more about Attanasio Engages Fans as AGM Highlights Financial Struggles.
Clement's appointment as head coach was anticipated to be a turning point for the club, yet it has become increasingly apparent that further action is required to alter their fortunes. The majority shareholders have expressed their commitment to strengthening the squad with new signings, aiming to elevate the team’s position in the league. Read more about Rudd Takes Helm as Norwich's Goalkeeper Coach.
Attanasio stated, "We have put huge resources behind the players that we brought in. Now, that said, relegation is not an option, and I know it's out of our control." His remarks highlight the gravity of the current situation, further emphasising, "I like the way they refer to us as 'the Americans'. But I don't want everyone here to leave thinking 'the Americans are crazy, but what do they know?' Look at the table, right?"
The need for improvement is clear, and Attanasio reassured supporters that the club is actively formulating transfer plans. "We are going to address this, and we are going to do everything we can, including making improvements in the transfer window," he asserted. "Ben (Knapper) and his team, and the coach and his team, and Lee Dunn (head of recruitment) and his team are going to try to get the type of player we need."
Knapper, the sporting director, has faced scrutiny following a significant £55 million expenditure over the past three transfer windows. Ressler echoed Attanasio's sentiments, confirming that financial resources will be allocated to enhance Clement’s squad in January. "What we can do, and what we can say, is that we're bringing in the strongest players we can," Ressler noted.
In addition to recruitment, a crucial aspect of the January strategy will involve reintegrating injured players back into the squad. "We have some headroom for the January window," Ressler explained. "The best part of the January window will be us getting our players healthy and back on the pitch who are off. We have to rely on what we think is a very strong group of leaders on the pitch and off the pitch behind them."
With a focus on recovery and recruitment, the ownership's commitment reflects a concerted effort to steer Norwich City away from the threat of relegation. As the January transfer window approaches, the club's proactive stance aims to secure the necessary reinforcements to safeguard their Championship status.