Johannes Hoff Thorup has officially taken the reins at SK Rapid Vienna, marking his return to management following a challenging tenure at Norwich City. The 36-year-old Danish coach has signed a two-year contract with the Austrian club, which boasts an impressive 32 league titles, with the option to extend for a third year based on performance. Read more about Slimane Targets World Cup Spot After Injury Return.
Thorup's departure from Norwich in April 2025 came as a surprise, just ten months after he was appointed by sporting director Ben Knapper to succeed David Wagner. Eager to return to the touchline, he has found what he describes as the ideal opportunity at Rapid Vienna. Read more about Jeffery Departs as Norwich Seek New Commercial Director.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Thorup stated, “When I first heard about SK Rapid’s interest, I knew immediately that I wanted to learn more. During my visit to the club and the discussions with the management, I quickly realised that this could be exactly the right place for me. The club and the team have great potential, and the city of Vienna is also fantastic.”
Currently, Rapid Vienna find themselves in seventh place in the Austrian Bundesliga, just four points adrift of a European qualification spot. This presents a significant challenge for Thorup, particularly following the departure of Peter Stoger, who was dismissed after a disappointing run that included eight losses in twelve matches, notably suffering a heavy 4-1 defeat in the Europa Conference League.
Thorup’s reputation for developing young talent played a crucial role in his selection for the position. Club president Alexander Wrabetz remarked, “There were several highly suitable individuals for this position... Based on the overwhelmingly positive impression and the resume of Johannes Hoff Thorup, who, among other things, has extensive expertise in working with young, high-potential players, we wholeheartedly agreed to Markus Katzer's (sporting director) proposal.”
Thorup is set to be officially unveiled on January 7, with his first competitive match scheduled for February 7 against Hartberg, followed by a derby against city rivals Austria Vienna after the mid-winter break. Sporting director Markus Katzer expressed optimism about Thorup's appointment, stating, “Despite his young age, he has already gained valuable experience at a very high level in Denmark and England... Johannes’ understanding of football fits perfectly with our playing philosophy, and I’m really looking forward to working with him.”
As Johannes Hoff Thorup embarks on this new chapter with Rapid Vienna, he is determined to implement his vision effectively and guide the club back to prominence in Austrian football.