Nunez: My Goal Was to Become a Champion, That's Why I Left Norwich for Ipswich

Marcelino Nunez sits in the quiet of an empty Portman Road, anticipating a vastly different atmosphere when he crosses the border from Suffolk to Norfolk to face his former team, Norwich. Nunez's £10m move from Norwich to Ipswich in August made him the first player to switch between the two clubs since Andy Marshall in 2001. Just weeks later, he helped Ipswich defeat their rivals for the first time in 16 years with a 3-1 win, having previously scored the goal that settled the East Anglian derby in Norwich's favor. Nunez reflects on the significant challenge he faced, stating, 'It was a big task, but we managed to turn it around and end the run, and I was really happy about it.' His celebrations that day, waving a corner flag in front of jubilant Ipswich fans, were spontaneous, and he attributes this to his South American roots, where winning a big derby is a significant cause for celebration. The Chile international feels well-equipped to handle the hostility that awaits him at Carrow Road, having played in intense derbies in South America. 'In South America, the derbies, the clásicos, are more intense, with more pressure,' he explains. 'And I think that works in my favor because I've played under pressure.' Nunez's move to Ipswich was driven by his ambition to fight for the championship and potentially win titles, a mindset shaped by his five championship wins with his previous team in Chile. He praises coach Kieran McKenna, saying, 'He's an excellent coach for me... He's one of the best coaches I've had in my career up until now.' Ipswich's Premier League ambitions were a significant draw for Nunez, who has played a crucial role in the team's success this season. With eight assists and three goals, including two free-kicks, Nunez has been instrumental in Ipswich's push for promotion. He credits McKenna for his impact, stating, 'He organizes the training sessions incredibly well, he's very intelligent, he knows how to keep the dressing room united, and he gives the players lots of confidence.' As Ipswich prepares to face Norwich, Nunez remains focused on the task at hand, saying, 'Our mentality, and my mentality, is to take three points and win.' With seven remaining Championship games, including the highly anticipated match against Norwich, Nunez is motivated to take it step by step to achieve his goal of playing in the Premier League.