Bristol City is currently on the verge of making history, and their manager, Liam Manning, is more determined than ever to guide the club back to the top flight for the first time in 45 years.
As the team stands strong, battling their way through the Championship, Manning’s focus remains on one simple goal: success.
A Clear Vision for Success
At Bristol City’s training ground, the walls are lined with a powerful quote that Manning reflects on daily: “Does it help the team be successful?” It’s a question that drives his every decision.
Adapted from the famous quote of the Team GB rowing squad that won gold in the Sydney 2000 Olympics, Manning’s version keeps him grounded, reminding him to focus only on what propels his team forward.
“I put those signs up,” Manning explains. “If something does not help us be successful, don’t give it energy.”
This mindset is helping him navigate the team towards their ultimate aim: returning to the Premier League.
A City Ready for Premier League Glory
Success for Bristol City has felt overdue for quite some time.
Despite being a consistent presence in the Championship mid-table for the past nine seasons, the club boasts much potential.
With their impressive stadium, Ashton Gate, offering stunning views of the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and a city that’s brimming with energy and spirit, it’s clear that Bristol has the foundations to compete at the highest level.
And Manning, who has proven his ability to manage under pressure, believes in this vision.
“We have everything— the fans, the city, the finances,” he says. “Now it’s about delivering on that promise.”
Manning’s Personal Journey to Success
Manning’s journey to becoming one of the brightest young managers in England is anything but traditional.
Although he never had a standout playing career, being told by Joe Royle at Ipswich that he wasn’t quite the right fit, Manning found his calling in coaching.
From his early days coaching at Ipswich and West Ham’s U-23s to his work with the City Football Group in New York and Lommel, Manning’s career has been all about learning, growing, and delivering results.
At MK Dons, Manning’s guidance saw the team come incredibly close to automatic promotion, and at Oxford United, he turned a struggling team into serious contenders.
Now, at Bristol City, Manning has built a squad that’s both youthful and cohesive— one that’s determined to achieve greatness despite not spending big in January.
Overcoming Personal Tragedy and Finding Strength
This season hasn’t been without its challenges. Manning tragically lost his baby son, Theo, which led to him taking time away from the team.
It was an incredibly painful period, but Manning credits the support of his players, staff, and fans for helping him navigate through it.
“It was a difficult time, something you wouldn’t wish on anybody,” Manning says.
“But I came back because of the group I have here. The performances when I was away, the way the staff and fans supported me, that made all the difference.”
For Manning, it’s been about finding perspective and embracing the preciousness of time.
“No regrets every day,” he tells his players. “Let’s make the most of our time, enjoy every game, and live in the present.”
A Bright Future for Bristol City
With just one loss in their last 11 games, Bristol City is in a strong position, sitting fifth in the table and four points clear of seventh.
The upcoming fixtures are tough, with Sunderland at home, followed by trips to Luton and Leeds, but Manning remains optimistic.
“Football clubs are defined by the people,” he says. “And the people here are top-notch.
Most of them! I look forward to coming in every day because we have a culture where people are desperate to improve.”
For Manning, the journey is far from over, but the destination— Premier League football— feels closer than ever.
With a manager so deeply committed to his team and a fanbase that’s fully behind him, the Robins have never been in a better position to achieve something special.