Nuno Espírito Santo’s remarkable tenure at Nottingham Forest has been solidified with a new contract extending his leadership until 2028. This commitment comes as a well-deserved reward for the Portuguese manager, whose strategic brilliance has orchestrated a stunning transformation of the club’s fortunes. In just 18 months, Nuno has lifted Forest from the precarious depths of a relegation battle to the exhilarating heights of European contention, a feat that underscores his tactical acumen and ability to galvanize a team towards shared success. His impact has resonated throughout the club, forging a strong bond between players, fans, and staff, creating an environment of unity and ambition that has propelled Forest to unprecedented achievements.
Nuno’s arrival at Forest in December 2023 marked a turning point in the club’s recent history. Facing the grim prospect of relegation, the team occupied a lowly 17th position in the Premier League table. Nuno’s appointment injected a renewed sense of purpose and tactical discipline, steering the club to safety and laying the foundations for an even more impressive campaign the following season. The 2024/25 season witnessed Forest achieving their highest league finish in three decades, securing a coveted 7th place and a return to European football for the first time since 1995/96. This remarkable achievement is a testament to Nuno’s managerial prowess and his ability to inspire a team to surpass expectations.
The extent of Nuno’s impact extends beyond the league table. Under his guidance, Forest achieved a historic victory against reigning champions Liverpool at Anfield, inflicting the only home defeat suffered by Jurgen Klopp’s side throughout the season. This victory, a symbol of Forest’s resurgence, resonated throughout the football world, highlighting the tactical nous and resilience instilled by Nuno. Furthermore, his individual accolades, including three Manager of the Month awards – more than any other coach in the 2024/25 season – underscore his contribution to Forest’s remarkable turnaround.
Nuno’s success at Forest is rooted in his ability to foster a collaborative and positive environment within the club. He has openly expressed his delight at continuing his journey with Forest, emphasizing the strong bond he has cultivated between the players, fans, and staff. This sense of unity has been instrumental in achieving the remarkable results of the past season and sets the stage for continued success in the years to come. His emphasis on teamwork and shared ambition has created a culture of excellence that permeates throughout the club.
The strong relationship between Nuno and Forest’s owner, Evangelos Marinakis, further strengthens the foundation for long-term success. Nuno has acknowledged the importance of this relationship, highlighting the collaborative approach that has underpinned the club’s progress. This mutual respect and shared vision between manager and owner provides stability and a clear direction for the club, laying the groundwork for sustained growth and achievement. The alignment between ownership and management creates a cohesive environment that allows for strategic planning and long-term development.
Looking ahead, Nottingham Forest embark on the 2025/26 season with renewed optimism and a clear objective: to build upon the successes of the previous campaign. Their opening fixture against Brentford at home on August 16th marks the beginning of another challenging but exciting chapter. Beyond domestic competition, the club’s qualification for the UEFA Conference League represents a significant milestone, underscoring the transformative impact of Nuno’s leadership. This return to European football provides a platform for Forest to showcase their progress on a continental stage and further solidify their status as a resurgent force in English football.
