Ange Postecoglou’s brief reign as Nottingham Forest head coach has come to an abrupt end after just 40 days in charge. The Australian manager was dismissed minutes after Forest’s 3-0 home defeat to Chelsea, leaving the club winless after eight matches under his management.
Forest confirmed the decision in a brief statement, citing “a series of disappointing results and performances.” The announcement came less than 20 minutes after the final whistle at the City Ground, marking the shortest tenure for a permanent manager in Premier League history.
The home crowd voiced their frustration throughout the match, with boos greeting the players at full-time. Postecoglou appeared dejected as he applauded the few fans who remained in the stands. Meanwhile, Chelsea climbed to fourth place in the league following the victory, led by Pedro Neto’s goal and assist in quick succession.
Club captain Ryan Yates expressed disappointment at the team’s performance, insisting that the players shared responsibility for the poor run. “It’s down to us to look in the mirror and do everything we can to turn it around,” he said. “Results haven’t been good enough, and we owe it to the fans to respond.”
Postecoglou’s final moments at the club were swift. Owner Evangelos Marinakis reportedly left his seat midway through the match as Chelsea extended their lead. Shortly after the final whistle, a senior official informed the coach of his dismissal. He then addressed the squad, wished them luck, and departed the stadium.
The 60-year-old had been appointed on September 9 following the departure of Nuno Espírito Santo. Hired as Marinakis’s top target to lead a new era, Postecoglou’s time quickly unraveled amid poor form. Forest’s eight games under him yielded no victories, leaving the team one point above the relegation zone.
Postecoglou’s record now eclipses that of Les Reed’s 41-day tenure at Charlton in 2006, making him the shortest-serving permanent Premier League manager. His spell included five league games and disappointing results in both domestic and European competitions, including a late Carabao Cup defeat to Swansea and a Europa League draw against Real Betis.
Forest fans had already turned against the manager, chanting for his dismissal and calling for the return of Nuno. Despite his claims that the team was “heading in the right direction,” the club’s leadership saw no signs of progress, choosing instead to end his tenure before it could recover.
