Nuno Espírito Santo Commits to Nottingham Forest Until 2028 After Historic Season
Nuno Espírito Santo Commits to Nottingham Forest Until 2028 After Historic Season: Nottingham Forest have officially announced that head coach Nuno Espírito Santo has signed a new three-year contract that will keep him at the City Ground until the summer of 2028. The extension comes after an incredible season under Nuno’s leadership, as he guided Forest to a remarkable seventh-place finish in the Premier League, securing European qualification for the first time in nearly three decades.
A Season to Remember for Nottingham Forest
Forest’s 2024/25 campaign exceeded all expectations. The club entered the season with modest goals after narrowly escaping relegation in the previous term. However, under Nuno’s guidance, Forest transformed into one of the Premier League’s most exciting and resilient teams.
For large portions of the season, Forest sat within the top four, sparking dreams of Champions League qualification. Although a late dip in form saw them lose five of their final eight matches, they still held on to seventh place—an achievement that secured a spot in the UEFA Europa Conference League. This marked the club’s first European appearance since the 1995/96 season, rekindling memories of Forest’s storied past.
FA Cup Semi-Final Run Adds to Forest’s Revival
In addition to their impressive league performance, Forest also made a deep run in the FA Cup. The team reached the semi-finals of the competition before falling to eventual winners Manchester City. Their cup journey included thrilling victories over top-flight rivals and gave fans another reason to believe in the club’s resurgence under Nuno.
The Portuguese manager, known for his tactical discipline and motivational style, has injected new life into Forest’s squad. Since taking charge in December 2023, following the departure of Steve Cooper, Nuno has rebuilt the team’s confidence and installed a winning mentality. In less than two years, he has completely reshaped the club’s trajectory.
Nuno Espírito Santo Expresses Pride and Optimism
After signing his contract extension, Nuno expressed his excitement about the future and his appreciation for the support he has received.
“I am delighted to be able to continue our journey at this fantastic football club,” said Nuno. “Since we arrived at Forest, we have worked extremely hard to create a special bond between the players, the fans, and everyone at the club. That unity helped us achieve great things last season.”
Nuno emphasized the importance of his relationship with Forest’s ownership, particularly with Evangelos Marinakis, the club’s ambitious and passionate owner.
“I would like to thank Mr Marinakis for his constant support and backing,” he added. “It’s important for me to share a strong connection with our ownership, and we’ve enjoyed working together from the very beginning. Now is the time to work even harder as we aim to create more special memories together.”
Club Owner Evangelos Marinakis Lauds Nuno’s Impact
Evangelos Marinakis, who has played a pivotal role in revitalizing Nottingham Forest’s fortunes since taking ownership, expressed full confidence in Nuno’s leadership and vision.
“Nuno has made a great impact and performed exceptionally well since joining us,” said Marinakis. “He has demonstrated a remarkable ability to maximize player performance and develop talent. His efforts to integrate young players into the first team have also been impressive.”
Marinakis highlighted how Nuno’s managerial style aligns perfectly with the club’s long-term goals. The owner, who has invested heavily in both infrastructure and player recruitment, believes that Nuno is the right man to lead the team into a successful era domestically and in Europe.
From Relegation Fears to European Dreams
Nuno took charge at a critical juncture. In December 2023, Forest sat dangerously close to the relegation zone. The team lacked identity and struggled to secure consistent results. Nuno immediately focused on stabilizing the defense and building a cohesive unit. His approach bore fruit, as Forest managed to secure their top-flight status on the final day of the 2023/24 season.
What followed in the 2024/25 campaign was nothing short of a transformation. Forest’s pressing intensity, defensive organization, and effective attacking transitions became hallmarks of their playstyle. The manager’s decision to give more minutes to young talents like Tyrese Omotoso and Oscar Perry also paid dividends, as the club developed a blend of youth and experience that made them difficult opponents for any team.
Looking Ahead: Forest’s Ambitions Continue to Grow
With European football now on the horizon, Forest will enter the 2025/26 season with renewed ambitions. Nuno will look to strengthen the squad during the summer transfer window while maintaining the core group of players who delivered last season’s success. Forest’s participation in the UEFA Europa Conference League presents an exciting opportunity to showcase their progress on the continental stage.
The club’s supporters, known for their unwavering loyalty and vocal presence at the City Ground, have also responded positively to Nuno’s leadership. Home matches routinely sell out, and the team’s connection with the fanbase has grown stronger than ever.
Nuno’s Track Record Points to More Success
Before joining Nottingham Forest, Nuno enjoyed successful stints with Wolverhampton Wanderers and Tottenham Hotspur. At Wolves, he led the team to Premier League promotion and back-to-back seventh-place finishes. At Spurs, his tenure was shorter, but his experience managing at the top level in England provided valuable insights.
Now at Forest, Nuno has found a project that matches his values and ambition. His commitment to building a long-term footballing identity, developing young players, and competing at the highest level has resonated with the club’s leadership and supporters alike.
Conclusion
Nuno Espírito Santo’s contract extension is more than just a reward for last season’s achievements. It signals a new chapter for Nottingham Forest—a club that has risen from the brink of relegation to reclaim a place on the European stage. With Nuno at the helm and Marinakis providing the vision and support, Forest’s future looks brighter than ever.
The journey ahead promises challenges, but it also offers opportunities for greatness. For the fans, players, and everyone connected with the club, the next few years could mark the most exciting era in Nottingham Forest’s recent history.
Nuno Espírito Santo Commits to Nottingham Forest Until 2028 After Historic Season
