Nottingham Forest has named Ange Postecoglou as their new manager, replacing Nuno Espirito Santo, who was dismissed following a fallout with club owner Evangelos Marinakis.
Nuno had guided Forest to European qualification for the first time in 30 years by finishing seventh in the Premier League last season. However, he became the first Premier League manager to lose his job this season after admitting that his relationship with Marinakis had broken down.
Postecoglou, who was sacked by Tottenham in June just days after winning the Europa League, now takes the reins. Despite delivering Spurs’ first trophy in 17 years, he was dismissed after their worst league finish since 1976/77, ending 17th.
Marinakis, however, is confident in the Australian’s ability to bring success. “We are bringing a coach to the club who has a proven and consistent record of winning trophies,” said Marinakis.
“His experience of coaching teams at the highest level, along with his desire to build something special with us at Forest, makes him a fantastic person to help us on our journey and achieve consistently all our ambitions.”
Postecoglou, who has lifted trophies with Tottenham, Celtic, Yokohama Marinos, and the Australian national team, will oversee his first match on Saturday in a tough trip to Arsenal. Forest currently sits 10th in the Premier League with four points from three games.
Marinakis is banking on Postecoglou’s attacking philosophy to push the club further. “After gaining promotion to the Premier League, then building consistently season after season to secure European football, we now must take the right step to compete with the very best and challenge for trophies,” he said.
“Ange has the credentials and the track record to do this, and we are excited he is joining us on our ambitious journey.”
Nuno, who took charge in December 2023 after Steve Cooper’s departure, rescued Forest from relegation and led them to historic success. But tensions grew after a missed Champions League opportunity and disputes over transfer activity. His open criticism of the club’s squad planning marked the final straw.
Forest confirmed his departure in a midnight statement, “Following recent circumstances, Nuno Espírito Santo has today been relieved of his duties as head coach. The club thanks Nuno for his contribution during a very successful era at the City Ground, in particular his role in the 2024/25 season, which will forever be remembered fondly in the history of the club.”
What you should know
Ange Postecoglou, known for his bold attacking style and history of winning trophies, is stepping into a Nottingham Forest side eager to build on last season’s European breakthrough.
His appointment marks a sharp tactical shift from Nuno’s cautious approach, setting the stage for a high-stakes season.
