Nottingham Forest Clarifies Position on Nuno Espirito Santo’s Future Following Opening Weekend Victory

Published: 22 August ‘2025. The English Chronicle Desk

Nottingham Forest have firmly dismissed circulating reports suggesting that manager Nuno Espirito Santo could be sacked after just one game of the new Premier League season. The club, which began its campaign with a 3-1 victory over Brentford, faced speculation on Friday regarding potential managerial changes, despite the encouraging start on the field.

The rumours, initially reported by Matteo Moretto, suggested that Forest were exploring alternative managerial options amid what has been described as a strained relationship between Espirito Santo and the club’s ownership. Sources indicate that tensions may have arisen over certain decisions made during the summer transfer window, as the club navigated a period of considerable recruitment activity.

Ahead of the new season, Espirito Santo had openly voiced his concerns regarding the state of the squad and the club’s transfer business. Speaking candidly, he acknowledged the challenges of preparing for the Premier League under circumstances he described as far from ideal. “We are very far—very, very far—from where we should be. We are very far in terms of preparation, in terms of planning, in terms of the squad,” he said. “So we are all very worried that in two or three days’ time we are playing in the Premier League, the most demanding competition in the world. And we are very far. Very, very far.”

The manager highlighted the difficulties of building cohesion within the squad when the final composition was still uncertain. Several players were involved in loan arrangements or pending transfers, which limited the opportunity to establish a stable team dynamic. “The plans that we had didn’t come through. The preparation in terms of the squad was not ideal. We didn’t have a chance to create the bond—and this is what I think is more important. Because we don’t know which squad we have. We have players working here who know they’re going to leave on loan. We have a major problem,” he explained.

Despite these early challenges, Forest have already bolstered their ranks with several signings, including Bologna winger Dan Ndoye, Botafogo duo Igor Jesus and Jair Cunha, and Norwich City goalkeeper Angus Gunn. In addition, the club’s owner Evangelos Marinakis has sanctioned further acquisitions in recent days, bringing in Omari Hutchinson, Arnaud Kalimuendo, James McAtee, and Douglas Luiz, reflecting a clear intent to strengthen the squad ahead of the demanding season.

Nottingham Forest’s statement clarifying Espirito Santo’s position underscores the club’s commitment to stability and continuity, even as it navigates the complex realities of the Premier League transfer market and squad management. While speculation around managerial decisions is common at the start of any season, the club appears determined to focus on performance and long-term planning rather than reacting to short-term pressure.

The coming weeks will be crucial for Forest as they integrate their new signings, consolidate the squad, and aim to build momentum under Espirito Santo’s guidance. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see whether the club’s approach to management and recruitment can translate into consistent results on the pitch.