By Uchenna Oluchi Eze
Nottingham Forest Sack Nuno Espirito Santo Despite Historic Success
Nottingham Forest have dismissed head coach Nuno Espirito Santo after 21 months, ending a turbulent yet successful era at the City Ground.
The club confirmed the decision in a late-night statement on September 8, thanking the Portuguese coach “for his contribution during a very successful era” and insisting he would “always hold a special place” in Forest’s journey.
From Survival to Europe
Nuno took charge in December 2023 with Forest 17th in the Premier League and struggling for survival. Despite a four-point deduction, he secured safety and then transformed the club the following season, steering them to seventh place — their highest finish since 1995 — and qualifying for European competition for the first time in three decades.
Highlights of his reign included victories over Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United, as well as a semi-final run in the FA Cup.
Internal Tensions With Marinakis
Despite on-field success, Nuno’s relationship with owner Evangelos Marinakis broke down. The 51-year-old publicly admitted in August that his once-strong daily communication with the Greek businessman had “changed,” describing the situation as “not so well.”
Tensions centred on disagreements over recruitment, with Nuno critical of Forest’s transfer strategy after £196m was spent on 13 signings this summer. Edu’s appointment as global head of football further sidelined Nuno in transfer decisions.
Marinakis previously appeared to confront Nuno on the pitch in May 2025 following a late injury controversy, an incident the club dismissed as “fake news.”
The End After Just Three Games
Forest entered the September international break 10th in the Premier League after a 3-0 home defeat to West Ham. The loss intensified scrutiny of Nuno’s position, despite his new three-year deal signed in June.
His dismissal, announced just three games into the new season, has provoked fan outrage on social media, with many supporters branding the move a betrayal of his achievements.
Replacement Search Begins
Talks are already underway over a successor. Former Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou is among the leading contenders, while Forest said an appointment is imminent.
The decision has cast doubt on the club’s stability and long-term vision, with critics warning that dismantling the momentum built under Nuno could derail Forest’s European campaign.
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