Nuno Espirito Santo's Future in Doubt as Relationship with Marinakis Deteriorates

Nuno Espirito Santo 

Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo's relationship with owner Evangelos Marinakis has reportedly broken down, sparking speculation about Nuno's future at the club. Get the latest updates on the situation.

“The reality is that the relationship is not what it used to be. It was a respectful...”

Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo recently addressed the media, discussing his team's performance and the upcoming match against Crystal Palace. Forest started their league campaign with a thrilling 3-1 win over Brentford, thanks to two goals from Chris Wood and a debut strike from Dan Ndoye.

However, Nuno's comments took a different turn when he was asked about his relationship with Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis. Although Nuno didn't directly say their relationship is “not so good,” he did explain a recent confrontation with Marinakis during a match against Leicester City. The incident occurred when Marinakis stormed onto the pitch, frustrated with Nuno's decision-making during the game.

"Our relationship has changed... it's not good."

Nuno Espirito Santo says the relationship between himself and Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis has changed for the worse. pic.twitter.com/bfcv7f43uf

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) August 22, 2025

According to Nuno, the tension arose from a substitution situation involving Taiwo Awoniyi, which led to frustration on both sides. Nuno mentioned that Forest's preparation and squad depth have been significant concerns, stating they're “very, very far” from where they should be in terms of planning and player readiness.

As Forest prepares to face Crystal Palace, Nuno's comments suggest that the team still has work to do to reach their full potential. Despite the challenges, Nuno praised his team's performance in their last match, saying they've shown improvement and are building confidence. With the Premier League season underway, Forest's upcoming matches will be crucial in determining their standings and potential for European qualification.

Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo will look to replicate his team's impressive performance against Crystal Palace, despite rumors swirling about his potential sacking. Owner Evangelos Marinakis' recent confrontation with Nuno has raised concerns about the manager's future at the club.

The tension between Nuno and Marinakis began after Forest's 2-2 draw with Leicester City, where Marinakis stormed onto the pitch, frustrated with the handling of striker Taiwo Awoniyi's injury. According to Nuno, the incident was a “moment of frustration” and a ”misunderstanding between the coaching staff and the medical department.”

Nuno Espirito Santo says his relationship with Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis has changed 😳 pic.twitter.com/hlyQrQ41wK

— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) August 22, 2025

Despite the rumors, Nuno has declared his commitment to Forest, dismissing talks of a rift with Marinakis. He emphasized his focus on the team's European ambitions and squad development, highlighting the progress made under his leadership. Nuno's experience in guiding teams to European success positions him well to lead Forest in their upcoming challenges.

As Forest prepares to face Crystal Palace, the team will aim to build on their strong start to the season. Their 3-1 win over Brentford showcased their potential, and Nuno will look to his team to continue performing well despite the off-field tensions.

Nuno's Future at Nottingham Forest in Doubt

When asked if the relationship can continue, Nuno replied: “I hope so but I don't know. That I cannot answer. On my side, I am doing whatever I can to help Forest, my commitment is something (that I see) and I feel it.”

The uncertainty surrounding Nuno's future at the club will be a worrying sign for supporters who have backed him as their manager. Despite the doubts, Nuno remains committed to the team and is focused on doing his best to help Forest succeed. However, the situation remains precarious, and it remains to be seen whether Nuno will be given the opportunity to continue leading the team.

Relationship with Marinakis deteriorated

“I always had a very good relationship with the owner. Last season, we were very close and spoke on a daily basis. 

“This season it is not so well (between us), but I always believe that dialogue is important because my concern is the squad and the season we have ahead of us.

“Our relationship has changed, and we are not as close. I think everybody at the club should be together, but this is not the reality.”

Nuno Espirito Santo's Relationship with Evangelos Marinakis: A Mystery

 Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis has changed, but he seems just as perplexed as the fans about the reason behind it. When asked to elaborate, Nuno expressed his confusion, saying: “I don't know exactly, but I'm being honest with you, it is not the same. The reason behind it, I do not know.”

The situation, however, remains unclear, leaving fans and pundits alike to speculate about what's next for Nuno and Nottingham Forest.

He futher stated: “What I said last week or two weeks ago was my concern and why I was worried about where we were going (as a club). What I said, I said it with respect.

“The reality is that the relationship is not what it used to be. It was a respectful relationship based on trust and sharing opinions, but now it is not so good.”

Nuno's Future at Nottingham Forest in Doubt

Nuno expressing uncertainty about the future of their working relationship. When asked if the relationship can continue, Nuno replied: “I hope so but I don't know. That I cannot answer. On my side, I am doing whatever I can to help Forest, my commitment is something (that I see) and I feel it.”

The uncertainty surrounding Nuno's future at the club will be a worrying sign for supporters who have backed him as their manager. Despite the doubts, Nuno remains committed to the team and is focused on doing his best to help Forest succeed. However, the situation remains precarious, and it remains to be seen whether Nuno will be given the opportunity to continue leading the team.