Nottingham Forest Manager Nuno Espirito Santo Set to Depart

Nuno Espirito Santo exit confirmed

Nuno Espirito Santo's tenure as Nottingham Forest manager has come to an end due to a breakdown in his relationship with owner Evangelos Marinakis.

Nottingham Forest's hierarchy has wasted no time identifying successors, prioritizing...

Nuno Espirito Santo's tenure as Nottingham Forest manager has come to an abrupt end due to a complete breakdown in his relationship with club owner Evangelos Marinakis. This decision marks the end of his journey with the club, and he will not lead the team in their upcoming European matches.

The breakdown in their relationship stems from disagreements over the club's summer recruitment strategy and squad depth. Espirito Santo had publicly expressed frustration over the team's preparation for the season, warning of a “major problem” and requesting additional signings. Despite his efforts, which included guiding Forest to seventh place in the Premier League last season and securing a Europa League spot, his departure was imminent due to Marinakis' dissatisfaction.

Nottingham Forest Football Club confirms that, 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… pic.twitter.com/catCyeaeR4

— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) September 8, 2025

Nuno Espírito Santo took the reins at Nottingham Forest in December 2023, helping the team secure their Premier League status in the 2023-2024 season. The following season, he led Forest to a remarkable campaign, culminating in a seventh-place finish and qualification for the Conference League, marking a significant achievement for the club. As of now, Forest has played three Premier League matches, with one win, one draw, and one defeat, and they're gearing up for their European adventure.

As a former goalkeeper, Nuno Espírito Santo transitioned into coaching in 2012. His managerial career has taken him to several clubs, including Rio Ave, Valencia, FC Porto, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Tottenham Hotspur, Al-Ittihad, and currently, Nottingham Forest. Notably, he led Wolverhampton Wanderers to the Premier League and secured a seventh-place finish, and also won the Saudi Pro League with Al-Ittihad in 2023, ending a 14-year wait for the title. Espírito Santo has received numerous accolades, including multiple Premier League Manager of the Month awards.

Key Details of Nuno Espirito Santo's Departure:

• Reason for Departure: Complete breakdown in relationship with owner Evangelos Marinakis

• Future Plans: Won't be taking part in Nottingham's European matches, including those against FC Porto

• Potential Replacement: Ange Postecoglou is a leading candidate to succeed him

Nottingham Forest's hierarchy has wasted no time identifying successors, prioritizing a “more progressive style of football” to suit their ambitious squad. With Nuno out, the club will now focus on appointing a new manager who can continue the work he started and bring stability and success to the team.