Two recently-promoted football teams are struggling in the Premier League and have fired their managers, drawing comparisons to Norwich City’s position a few years ago. Sheffield United’s Paul Heckingbottom was sacked after three consecutive defeats, with the team at the bottom of the table. Nottingham Forest’s manager, Steve Cooper, is also expected to be fired after a 5-0 loss to Fulham. Both managers were popular with their fans, but ultimately results-based business led to their dismissals.
Both clubs are facing challenges with their team’s composition, similar to Norwich City in 2021/22. Sheffield United is struggling after selling their best players, resulting in only five points from 15 games and an 8-0 defeat to Newcastle. Nottingham Forest also lost some key players and has endured four straight defeats, but still sit six points clear of the relegation zone. The situations feel similar to when Norwich appointed a new manager in the hopes of avoiding relegation.
There are mixed opinions on whether it’s fair to dismiss Steve Cooper from Nottingham Forest, considering the situation’s salvageable nature and his previous success with the team. Despite fan disillusionment with current performances, and there’s a feeling that Cooper is the man who turned the team around. The firing of previous Norwich City manager, Daniel Farke, led to unpleasent events and a downturn in the club’s performance, so it’s important for Nottingham Forest to consider their options carefully.
There’s a sense of caution for Forest and Sheffield United fans as they consider the support of their managerial choices in light of Norwich’s past experiences. It can serve as an example of a club avoiding a nosedive after a managerial change. Sheffield United is already in the process of finding a new manager, drawing concern over a hasty, short-term solution. Nottingham Forest, on the other hand, is facing questions on whether it’s fair to sack Cooper given the team’s current position. Both clubs are searching for the best course of action going forward while also looking to avoid the fate Norwich City has experienced since parting ways with Daniel Farke.
