Nottingham Forest have officially parted ways with head coach Nuno Espirito Santo, just three games into the 2025/26 Premier League season. The club released a statement on Monday, September 8, 2025, confirming the manager’s dismissal in what has become one of the earliest managerial changes of the campaign.
Official Club Statement
In their announcement, Forest expressed gratitude toward Nuno for his dedication and service, highlighting the Portuguese coach’s significant contribution during the previous season — a period described by the club as “historic” for everyone at the City Ground.
“Nottingham Forest would like to thank Nuno Espirito Santo for his professionalism and commitment during his tenure. His achievements, particularly last season, will always be remembered as a milestone in the modern era of our club,” the statement read.
A Shocking Decision
The decision surprised many observers, especially considering that Nuno had signed a three-year contract extension in June 2025, a reward for his remarkable achievements the season before. Under his guidance, Forest secured European qualification for the first time in three decades, a feat that had seemed almost unthinkable just a few years earlier.
However, despite his success and renewed deal, tensions behind the scenes appear to have cut short his stay in Nottingham.
Nuno’s Legacy at Nottingham Forest
Nuno was appointed in December 2023, taking over from Steve Cooper at a time when the club was flirting with relegation. He managed to stabilize the squad, steer Forest clear of the drop, and then inspire them to an extraordinary campaign in 2024/25, finishing seventh in the Premier League.
That top-seven finish not only ensured survival but also secured a place in the UEFA Europa League, as Forest took the spot ahead of Crystal Palace, who were moved into the UEFA Conference League due to multi-club ownership regulations. For the Reds, it was a truly historic return to European football after a 30-year absence.
This achievement was celebrated widely by fans and board members alike, paving the way for Nuno’s contract extension in the summer. Yet, less than three months later, the relationship between coach and club unraveled dramatically.
Broken Relationship with Club Owner
Rumors of discord had already begun to circulate in recent weeks. Nuno himself admitted in interviews that his relationship with owner Evangelos Marinakis had changed, suggesting a breakdown in communication and trust.
“I understand how football works. Where there is smoke, there is usually fire,” Nuno said in one of his final press conferences. “My job has always been to focus on the team, but it’s no secret that things are not the same as before.”
These comments fueled speculation about his position, and the board’s decision now confirms that the rift was too significant to repair.
What’s Next for Nottingham Forest?
Forest must now act quickly to appoint a new manager ahead of a crucial run of fixtures. Their first match after the international break will be a daunting away trip to the Emirates Stadium to face Arsenal on September 13.
The club’s hierarchy is expected to weigh up both short-term and long-term options, with names already being circulated in the media. Whoever takes charge will inherit a squad balancing the demands of domestic football with the club’s long-awaited return to Europe.
Nuno’s Future
At 51, Nuno Espirito Santo remains a respected figure in European football. With previous experience managing Wolves, Tottenham Hotspur, and a successful stint at Valencia earlier in his career, he is unlikely to remain unemployed for long. Clubs across the continent in need of an experienced, pragmatic coach may soon come calling.
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