Ange Postecoglou is poised to take over as the new Nottingham Forest head coach following the departure of Nuno Espírito Santo. The Portuguese manager was dismissed after leading the club to a historic European qualification campaign, marking the end of a tenure that brought both success and controversy.
Postecoglou, who previously managed Tottenham, is eager to return to the Premier League after his own departure earlier this year. Despite lifting the Europa League trophy with Spurs, domestic struggles saw his side finish 17th, ultimately costing him his position. The Australian manager believes he has unfinished business in English football and has held discussions with Forest’s hierarchy over the past few days.
Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis is known to have a strong personal connection with Postecoglou, which has placed the Australian as the frontrunner for the role. Marinakis has admired his achievements since his early coaching career in Greece and values his ability to bring success with limited resources. That relationship could prove decisive in the club’s next managerial appointment.
The decision to part ways with Nuno had been looming throughout the summer. Tensions grew over the club’s transfer dealings, with delays and disagreements between the head coach and Forest’s football operations team. Nuno voiced his frustrations publicly, something that did not sit well with the ownership. While there was consideration of an earlier change, the break during the international week provided a natural window for action.
Nuno departs as one of Forest’s most successful coaches in recent decades. His leadership during the 2024-25 season secured European football and rekindled the club’s reputation on the continental stage. That achievement ensures his time at the City Ground will be remembered fondly, even if his relationship with the board ultimately fractured.
For Postecoglou, the Forest role represents both a challenge and an opportunity. The club is entering an ambitious new phase, with the expectation of consolidating its place in Europe while also pushing for greater consistency in the Premier League. His attacking style, strong man-management skills, and proven ability to inspire players could make him the right figure to guide Forest into the next stage of their journey.
Should talks conclude successfully, Forest fans may soon see a fresh era begin under Postecoglou’s leadership one driven by ambition, passion, and the pursuit of sustained success.
