It was the classic Daniel Farke. He remained calm, composed and realistic. Everything came with a smile. A winning smile after a Premier League win, nothing less.
Was Saturday’s 2-1 win at Brentford a sign of the life that Norwich City’s faith and patience in their longtime head coach in the first three months of the season had deserved?
This illusion lasted a few minutes. After completing his post-game press conference duties at Brentford Community Stadium, Farke learned that he and his coaching staff were being sacked. All they have been given is a little time to let their families know before the news goes public.
After four years and five months and 208 games on the job, the decision came out of the blue for Farke – just hours after Norwich fans chanted his name with his side 2-0 against his fellow promoted Brentford. Even less time since he stood in front of the 1,750 traveling supporters, giving them the festive “Olés” they had grown to love after each of his previous 86 wins.
Assistant head coach Edmund Riemer and first team coach Christopher John stood at the edge of the technical zone during the celebrations, watching. Beside them, chief performance officer Chris Domogalla slammed his fist. As the players returned to the tunnel, they were all sharing huge, relieved hugs and sporting broad smiles.
This trio were also sacked. All had received significantly improved four-year contracts over the summer, following a second promotion as three-season league title winners. Norwich will now agree to compensation, which Farke says will cost them at least a seven-figure sum.
