Super Eagles duo Ola Aina and Taiwo Awoniyi are set to work with a new coach as Nottingham Forest have parted ways with Portuguese tactician Nuno Espirito Santo after just three Premier League games into the new season, Bold Sports reports.
Sources believe that the decision was made after increased tension between Nuno, club owner Evangelos Marinakis, and recently appointed Global Head of Football Edu Gaspar over transfer strategies and playing style.
In a statement released on Monday night, the club announced their decision and expressed their appreciation to Nuno: “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 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.”
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Nuno Espirito Santo was appointed as Nottingham Forest head coach in December 2023 with the club in the thick of a relegation battle. However, the Portuguese managed to secure their Premier League status despite a four-point deduction. They eventually finished 17th on the table with 32 points, six points above 18th-placed Luton.
The following season was historical as Nuno led Forest to European football for the first time in 30 years. The team also reached the FA Cup semi-final before they were eliminated by Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.
Despite his remarkable achievements, Nuno was not satisfied with Nottingham Forest’s transfer activity during the summer window. Speaking exclusively to Sky Sports News’ David Craig before the season started, Nuno said: “We are very far – very, very far – from where we should be. We are very far in terms of preparation, in terms of planning, in terms of the squad.
“So we are all very worried that in two or three days time we are playing for the Premier League, the most demanding competition in the world. And we are very far. Very, very far.”
Nuno later made public comments about the breakdown in his relationship with the club’s owner, Evangelos Marinakis, stating that they were “not so close” and that their relationship had “changed”.
For Aina and Awoniyi, the consequences of Nuno’s exit could be different. Aina was a key player for the Portuguese and played some of his best football last season. He also signed a new contract, tying him down to the club until 2028. With a new head coach, the Nigerian International may have to prove himself once again or adapt to a new system.
Awoniyi had gone down the pecking order with Nuno in charge. The 28-year-old only started three Premier League games last season and that game time was set to reduce this season with the signing of new attackers. However, with a new coach, he could get a chance to impress.
Former Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou is one of the three candidates under consideration to replace Nuno. The club is expected to make a decision on their new head coach as soon as possible.
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