Norwich City boss Liam Manning has criticised “unacceptable” fan actions following the club’s 2-0 defeat to Hull City at Carrow Road on Saturday.
Hundreds of Norwich City supporters gathered outside the stadium after the final whistle, venting frustration at Manning, sporting director Ben Knapper, and executive director Zoe Webber amid a dire run of form in the Championship.
Interesting chat with Liam Manning at Colney. Key takeaways:
🔰 Liam Gibbs out for 3-4 weeks
🔰 Manning wasn’t blocked in post-Hull but heard that players’ families felt threatened
🔰 Says “sacking me won’t change a great deal”
🔰 Thinks #NCFC can learn from #SWFC unity pic.twitter.com/29UtfXjk94— Samuel Seaman (@SamuelSeaman8) November 4, 2025
Following the loss, groups of fans reportedly surrounded the players’ car park and blocked exits, while club chaplain Jon Norman claimed some players’ families were verbally abused. The incident marked a new low in what has become a toxic atmosphere around Carrow Road after 6 consecutive defeats.
Manager Responds to Carrow Road Protests
Speaking after the match, Manning acknowledged the right of supporters to protest but drew a clear line when it came to intimidation or abuse.
“Everyone’s got the right to protest, and I understand why people aren’t happy,” he said. “For me, where it becomes too far is when players’ families feel threatened or uncomfortable. It then goes from professional to personal.”
The 40-year-old head coach admitted he shares fans’ frustration but urged supporters to avoid crossing into aggression.
“There’s a real fine line,” Manning added. “People have the right to protest, but when it becomes violent and abusive, that’s not acceptable. When people feel threatened, that’s not right for me.”
Full-time. pic.twitter.com/F27aTBvd6F
— Norwich City FC (@NorwichCityFC) November 1, 2025
Pressure Mounts After Poor Run
The latest loss to Hull City leaves Norwich City without a win in 6 league games and sliding down the Championship table. Supporters have grown increasingly vocal in their criticism of both the coaching staff and the club hierarchy, particularly amid concerns about performances and recruitment since Knapper’s appointment.
While Manning stated he did not personally experience the protests, he reiterated his belief that players and their families deserve protection and respect. His comments come as the Canaries prepare for a crucial run of fixtures that could define their season, with the club hierarchy standing firm behind their under-fire manager for now.
With struggling Sheffield Wednesday up this evening, Norwich have got to get a result. The Owls’ are certain relegation fodder, and Manning’s chances of staying in the job beyond November hinge on him not getting beaten.
Lose again, and Carrow Road will be utterly toxic on Saturday, with or without Manning at the helm.
