Dean Smith’s promotion claim on Norwich City sacking.

Dean Smith believes he would have won promotion with Norwich City if he had remained at Carrow Road.

In December 2022, the Canaries fired the former Aston Villa and Brentford manager, who had led the club to fourth place in the Championship but experienced declining performance and results.

Smith’s playing style and personality failed to connect with City fans, who criticised his tactical approach near the end of his tenure.

He was later replaced by David Wagner, who was unable to revive a promotion push, with Norwich finishing 13th in the Championship in their first season after being relegated from the Premier League in 2022-23.

 

Smith took over for City manager Daniel Farke in November 2021, following his dismissal at Aston Villa. Now in charge of MLS club Charlotte FC, the 54-year-old is optimistic about his departure from Norwich.

“I had a dream job at Villa and grew up as an Aston Villa fan.” After getting the job, I left Brentford to join Villa. We were promoted the first season and spent two and a half years in the Premier League, where I thoroughly enjoyed my time.

“Despite being sacked, I maintain positive relationships with the owners, players, and fans.

“Then I was offered a job in the Premier League with Norwich. “It didn’t go as well as we would have liked, but they’ve never been in a better position than fourth when I left,” Smith told the Reports from Arbroath podcast.

 

“I was disappointed that it did not work out because I believe we would have been promoted that season.” Unfortunately, it didn’t quite work out.

Smith’s departure has caused City to struggle in the Championship, resulting in their fourth consecutive season in the second tier.

Smith’s time in America has paid off, as he has led Charlotte FC to seventh place in the Eastern Conference and recently signed a three-year contract extension. Despite his initial reservations about moving to the United States, he has achieved success.