Norwich City has announced the appointment of Ben Knapper as their new sporting director, replacing Stuart Webber. Knapper, who has already left his role at Arsenal, will officially take up the position on November 27. He will work alongside Webber during a handover period, with the length of their overlap yet to be determined. Norwich believes Knapper, who has extensive experience in coaching, recruitment, and analysis, is the ideal candidate to drive the club forward with his data-led approach. Knapper’s expertise in loans and pathway management and his success in revamping Arsenal’s loans program were key factors in his selection.
Knapper’s appointment comes after an extensive recruitment process, during which several candidates were considered, including Steve Hitchen from Tottenham and Nick Cox from Manchester United. However, Knapper’s knowledge of the club, the industry, and his vision for the future set him apart. His interviews demonstrated a strong understanding of Norwich’s current situation and a realistic approach to their goals. Highly rated within the game, Knapper was even considered as a potential successor to Edu as sporting director at Arsenal. He played a key role in Arsenal’s loans program, developing young players such as Folarin Balogun, Joe Willock, and William Saliba.
Prior to joining Arsenal, Knapper worked as an analyst at Scunthorpe United, followed by a position at data analytics company Prozone Sports. His work with Prozone caught the attention of Arsenal, and he joined the club in 2010. Knapper’s role as loans and pathway manager at Arsenal has seen others transition into sporting director roles, indicating his potential for success in his new position at Norwich. He is known for his attention to detail and data-driven approach, which he will bring to his role as sporting director. Knapper will be responsible for setting the football strategy and culture at Norwich, and he will face the challenge of leading the team’s push for promotion from the Championship.
Knapper’s appointment marks a change in the power structures at Norwich City, with Mark Attanasio increasing his involvement and Webber’s resignation creating a state of limbo at the club. Knapper’s task will be to build on the foundations left by Webber and set out a new vision for the club. Norwich, known for giving opportunities to talented individuals, feels confident that Knapper is the right person for the job. It remains to be seen how Knapper will navigate his new role and the challenges that lie ahead, but his appointment has generated intrigue and excitement among Norwich fans.
