Norwich City: Analysis of Teemu Pukki's 2022/23 Championship season

His representative used the media to express the Finnish international's desire to depart the club in pursuit of a new challenge after an 11-goal haul in the Premier League despite Norwich's dismal relegation. 

Despite some clubs making contact with Pukki's representatives last summer, none took the plunge and tried to test Norwich's resolve. Norwich's perceived unwillingness to negotiate and the expectancy of a high price stopped the chances of a summer move in its tracks. 

In reality, Norwich would have listened to offers if they had arrived. But their firm stance meant no clubs tested the waters. The club activated the 12-month option in their favour to keep the Finn at the club, albeit on his Premier League wages. 

Pukki carried on as most expected - remaining professional, not kicking up a fuss and determined to make an impact to help his final City chapter end in success. 

Even though there was a hope he would change his mind and commit to an extended spell at Norwich, it was never a belief or a reality. The contract offer that was put to him went unanswered, and the expectation was that his desire for a new challenge remained. 

Nonetheless, Dean Smith and the Norwich players were delighted that he remained at the club. Everyone was acutely aware of his ability and track record at Championship level. 

That feeling is still present among all the key stakeholders in and around Norwich - the 2022/23 campaign culminated with the feeling that Pukki's struggles existed due to wider deficiencies in the team and the inconsistency of chance creation. 

Pukki started the season uncharacteristically slowly. 

It took the striker seven matches before he opened his account for the campaign in Norwich's 3-0 win over eventual play-off finalists Coventry. That was his worst start to a season during his five years at Norwich.

Some injuries popped up combined with Josh Sargent's early form that kept him sidelined. Throw in a style of play that was flattering to deceive and the odds were stacked against Pukki from the start. 

Teemu Pukki cut a frustrated figure at Norwich City last season. (Image: Focus Images Ltd)

Pukki cut a frustrated figure for the majority of the campaign and was often left to feed off scraps. His last Carrow Road goal arrived in September's 3-2 victory over Bristol City and his final strike for the club came in David Wagner's first game in charge. 

The German understood the situation. He was told from the off that Pukki was unlikely to remain at Carrow Road beyond the summer. 

Given the challenges of last season, Pukki still finished with double figures. A remarkable return considering the lack of chances created and cohesion in the side.

His role changed drastically - in the absence of a creator-in-chief, Pukki attempted to assume that role. Only in his debut campaign did he record more assists (10) than in 22/23 when he managed seven. 

Pukki played 900 minutes fewer than in that 18/19 season where he starred and over 500 fewer than in City's last title-winning campaign. This was the first season that Pukki finished the campaign without being City's top scorer. 

In the end, despite an appropriately emotional conclusion, Pukki's time at Norwich faded out rather than being surrounded in celebration and the glory of a third Championship promotion on his CV. 

There is already interest in Pukki from America, Greece and Germany. Turkish outfit Samsunspor and MLS side Minnesota United have both been linked with a move for the 33-year-old. 

Wherever he ends up, Pukki will find yellow and green support beside him. Despite his final season petering out, he will be remembered as a legend for his contribution in Norfolk. 

Teemu Pukki's last Norwich City goals arrived against Preston. (Image: Russell Hart/Focus Images Ltd)

Norwich were trying to move on from Pukki last term. Yet, the challenge remains to ensure someone steps into his very large shoes on the goalscoring front. 

For all the focus on Pukki's future - Norwich's next steps to replace a player who has displayed such longevity 

Sargent had moments. He played his best football prior to the World Cup break before going off the boil thereafter. Adam Idah hasn't been exposed to the gametime required and is yet to explode into life at Norwich, largely down to injuries. 

Ashley Barnes has arrived on a free transfer to complete their striking stable next season - the solution to life after Pukki may be sharing the goals around rather than an over-reliance on one player to deliver. 

Norwich will need to solve their creative struggles that have persisted since Emi Buendia departed to Aston Villa. Neither Smith nor Wagner were able to unlock their attacking potential last season. 

Pukki leaves a big hole in Norwich's attack. They will be looking within for solutions. The mission is to ensure his name isn't mentioned next season.