Philippe Clement: Norwich City Boss Ready to 'Embrace' First Derby Game Norwich City head coach Philippe Clement has expressed his eagerness to take on his first East Anglian derby against Ipswich Town, describing the match as a significant challenge and a moment of high intensity. The encounter, scheduled for Saturday at 12:30 BST, will see two of the Championship’s top teams clash, with Norwich aiming to reverse their previous defeat at Portman Road earlier in the season. The match is expected to draw a large crowd and carry immense emotional weight for both sets of fans, as the derby is known for its passionate atmosphere and competitive nature. Clement, who has previously managed teams in Belgium, France, and Scotland, including a stint at Rangers, has spoken about his familiarity with derbies and the unique energy they bring. He emphasized the importance of the game, stating, “I know how important this is.” Reflecting on his experiences in derbies, he highlighted the raw passion of fans and the intensity of the moment. “I loved those moments, so I’m sure I’m going to enjoy tomorrow,” he said during an interview with BBC Radio Norfolk. Clement also mentioned the excitement generated by the fans, including a personal anecdote about meeting his wife while she was in the city. The coach acknowledged the significance of the derby to both teams, noting that it is often a “life or death” situation for fans. He described the atmosphere as a special occasion, where the stakes are high and the emotions run deep. “I’ve been in a lot of derbies in more than 30 years in football. I know it’s always a special occasion for the fans,” he added. Clement’s comments underscored his belief in the importance of the match, not just for the teams but for the broader community of supporters.#philippe_clement #norwich_city #ipswich_town #kieran_mckenna #east_anglian_derby
