Norwich City column: Grant Hanley, Angus Gunn, Ashley Barnes, Jacob Sorensen and Onel Hernandez look set to leave but hopefully Emiliano Marcondes signs new contract
There is little doubt that 2025 promises to be another year of significant change at Norwich City – and I believe it’s one to be excited about.
Including those currently on loan, no fewer than 13 players find themselves out of contract at the end of the season.
It's a list that comprises a wealth of experience in Grant Hanley, Angus Gunn, Ashley Barnes, Jacob Sorensen and Onel Hernandez.
At this stage, it appears all the aforementioned players will be moving on and with the exception of Gunn, they are not difficult decisions for Ben Knapper to make.
Hanley and Hernandez, in particular, have been great servants to this club, but they are not part of the future. Likewise, Sorensen, a good footballer who has sadly been let down by injuries. Barnes, a good man, but past his best.
As for Gunn, only time will tell how the situation plays out. Wages may well be the determining factor.
The extensive list also features Emiliano Marcondes, who joined the club on a short-term deal back in October, in the midst of a pretty serious injury crisis.
I have to say I've been pleasantly surprised by the quality of the 29-year-old; and equally impressed with the impact he has made.
Marcondes has very quickly become a key player in this team, not just because of his versatility. The Dane has often been the man to open the door from midfield, either by finding that pocket of space between the lines or playing that killer pass.
His dead-ball abilities have also been a valuable asset (we all remember the infamous belly rub).
Perhaps the biggest compliment is that I thought his absence was keenly felt in the recent 1-1 draw with QPR, as we failed to break down a stubborn defensive line.
I'd be surprised if Knapper wasn't sitting down with Marcondes' representatives to talk about extending his stay at Carrow Road beyond the summer.
There is no doubt his performances deserve it.
