Liam Manning’s uncertain future at Bristol City could affect Portsmouth’s pursuit of signing former loanee Rob Atkinson.
Atkinson spent the second half of the season on loan at Fratton Park, after recovering from a long-term injury, making 15 appearances in all competitions, helping Pompey stay in the second tier.
Portsmouth manager John Mousinho has made it clear he wants to bring the 26-year-old back to the south coast, however, there are now doubts surrounding this move amid speculation over his parent club’s managerial future.
Liam Manning’s Uncertain Future
Reports emerged over the weekend regarding Manning’s future at Bristol City, hinting at the fact that the Norwich-born manager may be heading to Norwich City, after the Canaries parted ways with former manager Johannes Hoff Thorup at the end of the season.
With the 39-year-old still having two years remaining on his deal at Ashton Gate, it’s believed Norwich will have to pay compensation of around £800,000 to get the Englishman to Carrow Road.
If this move were to happen, it would leave Atkinson’s future in the air, as the defender still has a year remaining on his contract at Ashton Gate.
The 26-year-old is yet to make an appearance under Manning after returning from an ACL injury in November 2024. However, despite this, Manning insisted Atkinson was still a Robin whilst speaking with the press last week.
“He’ll be coming back here and unless anything changes, that’s where it’s at.”
John Mousinho Confirms Portsmouth Target
Speaking to the News, Pompey manager Mousinho confirmed the club’s interest in bringing the 26-year-old back to Fratton Park.
“People know what I think of Rob, hence why we tried so hard to get him back for the past four games. He’s been pivotal in us staying in the league, so we’ll see what Bristol City do there.
“I think there’s a lot of moving parts to that because Bristol City are in the play-off places, but we have a very good relationship with the football club, with (technical director) Brian Tinnion, Liam Manning and the staff there.
“I think, whatever happens with Rob, I hope he plays next year and he does really well – hopefully that’s for us.”
Writer’s View
With multiple news outlets reporting different things, it’ll be interesting to see whether or not Manning stays at Ashton Gate or moves back to where he calls home, especially after such a good season with Bristol City.
For Portsmouth, Manning moving on could potentially be a massive blow for their pursuit of Atkinson, depending on whether or not the next City manager favours the 26-year-old. Resigning the former loanee could be another crucial step toward Championship safety for the second season in a row, especially with the calibre of teams that are playing in the second tier next season.
