Nuno Espirito Santo sacked by Nottingham Forest after falling out with Ange Postecoglou favourite to take over

Nuno guided Forest back into Europe for the first time in 30 years last season, having taken the club from the brink of relegation to a seventh-placed finish in the Premier League.

But Nuno expressed “concern” ahead of the new campaign and frustration at the club’s transfer activity over the summer, and admitted that his relationship with owner Marinakis had collapsed in an explosive press conference on 22 August.

Nuno, who signed a new three-year contract in June, revealed his relationship with Marinakis had changed and they were “not as close”.

He also said “when there’s smoke, there’s fire” regarding reports of his exit, which has now been confirmed by the club.

Forest remained in charge for the 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace and the 3-0 home defeat to West Ham before the international break, with Nuno departing ahead of Forest’s trip to Arsenal on Saturday.

Forest said in a statement: “Nottingham Forest Football Club confirms that, following recent circumstances, Nuno Espirito 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 2024/25 season, which will forever be remembered fondly in the history of the club.

“As someone who played a pivotal role in our success last season, he will always hold a special place in our journey.”

Former Tottenham and Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou is favourite to succeed him.

Postecoglou, who has been out of work since leaving Spurs in June, is the leading candidate for the job at the City Ground.

The Australian was sacked by the north London club just 16 days after leading them to Europa League glory.

He now looks set to get another crack at the Premier League and European football at the City Ground.

And he could be set for a swift return to north London as Forest visit Arsenal in the Premier League on Saturday lunch-time.

The 60-year-old spent two seasons at Spurs and ended their trophy drought last season, but did so at the expense of the league, where they finished 17th.

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