Norwich City’s majority shareholder succeeded Wynn Jones and Delia Smith as custodian at Carrow Road, but has retained a close relationship with the pair after they took up positions as honorary life presidents.
Attanasio was handed the reins after a significant period of transition, with Wynn Jones and Smith eventually feeling the American was best placed to build on the foundations they established over a nearly three-decade spell at the top of Carrow Road.
Alongside Smith, Wynn Jones achieved five promotions and helped City swim against the financial tide to remain competitive at the very top of the English game despite adopting a self-funded model.
Attanasio has brought deeper pockets, but replicating the depth of feeling Wynn Jones and Smith shared with supporters will be tough to match.
Writing on the club’s official channels, Attanasio hailed Wynn Jones’ impact at Carrow Road that spanned three decades.
‘All of us at Carrow Road share extreme sadness at the passing of Michael Wynn Jones.
‘He was a true gentleman— cultured, erudite, witty and charming.
‘We all admired his passionate beliefs and loyalties, especially to his beloved Delia and Norwich City.
‘With all his accomplishments, he was approachable and welcoming, always respectful of others and kind to our family, the Ressler family and our friends. He will be profoundly missed by everyone who had the privilege to know him.’
City officially confirmed Wynn Jones’ passing on Monday evening, with a flood of tributes pouring in from former managers, players and officials. Flags at Carrow Road have been flown at half mast while their first-team group observed a minute’s silence at their Colney training centre before their session.
Boss Philippe Clement, sporting director Ben Knapper and Zoe Webber were at Carrow Road on Tuesday afternoon to lay flowers and write in the book of condolence on display in the Lion and Castle pub founded and funded by Smith and Wynn Jones.