Chris Sutton opens up on Marcelino Nunez leaving Norwich City for fierce rivals Ipswich Town

Marcelino Nunez Joins Ipswich Town from Norwich City, Sparking Strong Reactions

Marcelino Nunez has made the rare and controversial switch from Norwich City to their fierce rivals Ipswich Town — the first time in 24 years a player has moved directly between the two clubs.

Unsurprisingly, the move has sparked a wave of reaction, particularly from Norwich supporters and former players.

Onel Hernandez has already shared his thoughts, suggesting that Nunez may face a hostile reception — and possibly some hard tackles — when the two sides next meet.

The Chilean’s transfer hasn’t sat well with the Norwich fanbase, despite the club’s leadership insisting the £10 million offer was too good to turn down, especially with Nunez entering the final 10 months of his contract.

Former Norwich striker and club legend Chris Sutton has also weighed in. Writing in the Pink Un, Sutton admitted he could never have imagined making such a move himself, but he offered a clear and reasoned view on the transfer — suggesting Norwich may ultimately benefit more than Ipswich.

“I understand why fans are upset about a player joining their rivals,” Sutton said, “but getting £10 million for someone nearing the end of their contract is exceptional business. That’s the responsibility of Liam Manning, Ben Knapper, Zoe Webber, and the board.”

Sutton acknowledged Nunez’s talent but pointed out his inconsistency. “He was a good player for Norwich — not a world beater. There were glimpses of brilliance, but he wasn’t consistent. No one else would’ve paid that much for him. Let’s be honest.”

He continued, “I’m not going to criticise the club. £10 million is good money, regardless of the destination. Norwich have a model, and this deal fits it. It’s just solid business.”

Sutton also questioned whether Nunez fully grasped the intensity of the rivalry, noting that as a Chilean international, he may not have the same emotional ties to the region as someone raised in East Anglia.

“He might not feel the rivalry in the same way Norwich fans do,” Sutton said. “He’s not from here. He had a relatively short spell at the club. But he’d be foolish not to recognise the passion surrounding this derby.”

While Sutton believes the decision ultimately came down to career opportunity and financial gain, he personally could never have imagined switching allegiances. “For someone like me, brought up in Norfolk, moving to Ipswich would’ve been unthinkable. The circumstances would have had to be extreme — it just wouldn’t have happened.”