Bristol City news: Rob Edwards link, Jon Lansdown message, Nahki Wells’ uncertain future | OneFootball

The latest updates from Ashton Gate

The Liam Manning era at Bristol City is over - and the hunt for a new head coach has begun in earnest.

Manning, who arrived at Ashton Gate in November 2023, has been appointed head coach of Norwich City on a four-year deal, with the Canaries triggering his release clause following a strong season in BS3.

Despite leading the Robins to their first Championship play-off finish in 17 years, his side fell short in the semi-finals, losing 6-0 on aggregate to Sheffield United.

Manning’s departure leaves a significant void at the club, both tactically and culturally, having forged a tightly knit squad and a formidable home record that ranked among the division’s best.

As Bristol City reflect on his exit, the focus now shifts to who can build on the foundations he laid and take the next step forward.

Rob Edwards among frontrunners - but no offer yet

Among the names at the forefront of the early conversation is Rob Edwards. According to the Stroud Times, the former Luton Town boss is “closing in” on the role, with reports suggesting he is Bristol City's first choice candidate.

Edwards, out of work since being dismissed by Luton in February, is said to be eager to return to management - and the Robins could offer a swift route back in.

However, conflicting information casts doubt on the immediacy of such a move. Bristol Live have refuted claims that Edwards has been offered the job, suggesting instead that while he remains under consideration, no formal approach has been made.

The situation remains fluid, and it’s understood that a final decision is unlikely to be made this week.

This caution may in part be due to competition. TalkSPORT’s Alex Crook reports that Middlesbrough are also interested in Edwards following Michael Carrick’s exit.

With other clubs circling, and no offer yet on the table, Bristol City may have a fight on their hands if Edwards is indeed their man.

Jon Lansdown’s reaction: gratitude and a measured search

Chairman Jon Lansdown offered a respectful farewell to Manning via the club’s official channels upon announcement of his Canaries departure.

“We are disappointed to lose Liam after such a successful campaign,” he wrote.

“I would like to place on record my thanks to Liam for his hard work and commitment over the past 18 months and the memories we have made together.”

There was no rush promised in the statement - just a line on "assessing all options."

The club appears to be playing it strategically, resisting the urge to make a knee-jerk appointment and instead keeping their cards close to their chest.

Nakhi Wells’ “waiting game” at Ashton Gate as contract expiry looms

For players, managerial limbo can be more than just a tactical question - it can shape their future. Veteran striker Nahki Wells has admitted the change in the dugout introduces fresh uncertainty around his position at the club.Speaking to The Royal Gazette, Wells praised Manning and the impact the former head coach had on him personally. “He's a top manager who I believe will go on to do top things... All of us are quite sad and disappointed to see him go,” Wells said.

“I wish him all the best and I can assure you that Norwich will be a much better side with him than without him.”

But when asked about his own Robins future, the 34-year-old admitted the departure had left questions lingering.

“For us, it's about seeing who is appointed next,” he explained.

“It's just a waiting game to see what my future holds and what's going to happen between me and the club over the next few weeks.”

Wells is entering the final stages of his contract, and with the club undergoing change at the top, his next move may hinge on who arrives in the dugout.