After achieving their highest league finish in 30 years last season, Nottingham Forest has become one of the hottest topics in UK football media. The club, guided by manager Nuno Espírito Santo, looks poised for an exciting campaign both domestically and in Europe. Their seventh-place Premier League finish in 2024–25 marked the beginning of a new era, and the summer of 2025 has been nothing short of transformative.
Major Transfers: New Blood at the City Ground
Fans and analysts have been watching Forest’s transfer activity closely, given the club’s commitment to squad improvement. The standout signing is Dan Ndoye, brought in from Bologna for a staggering £34.5million. The Swiss international has signed a five-year contract, raising hopes for enhanced attacking flair. Alongside Ndoye, Forest has invested in youthful South American talent. Igor Jesus and Jair Cunha, both from Botafogo, arrived for a combined fee exceeding £20million. They bring pace, energy, and promise, directly addressing gaps in the squad.
Forest bolstered its goalkeeping department by signing Angus Gunn—the Scottish international joined on a one-year deal, adding much-needed experience and depth in goal. Cherif Yaya from Rio Ave joined in midfield, while strategic under-the-radar signings aim to future-proof the team’s development.
High-Profile Departures Reshape the Side
No summer window is complete without big exits. Anthony Elanga, a fan favourite, departed for Newcastle United in a £55million move—one of the window’s headline deals. The club also saw the exit of Brazilian midfielder Danilo to Botafogo (£20million) and Ramon Sosa to Palmeiras. Such moves have provided Forest with both capital for reinvestment and room for tactical evolution.
Some veteran squad members left after contract expiration, including Wayne Hennessey, Harry Toffolo, and several academy players, reflecting Forest’s drive to refresh and rejuvenate.
Manager Nuno Espírito Santo: Integrity and Ambition
Nuno Espírito Santo’s impact on Forest cannot be overstated. Appointed in December 2023, he rescued the club from relegation worries and then delivered a historic seventh-place finish, securing Forest’s first European campaign since 1995–96. Under his leadership, Forest recorded away wins against Liverpool and Manchester United, alongside three Premier League Manager of the Month awards in the 2024–25 season—the most for any manager that year.
Nuno recently signed a contract extension until 2028. In a heartfelt statement, he highlighted the strong bond between the squad, staff, supporters, and ownership, signalling continuity and ambition for seasons ahead. The aim is clear: build on last year’s foundation and establish Forest as a mainstay in English and European football.
Pre-Season Performance: Questions and Progress
Pre-season often throws up challenges, and Forest’s final friendly at the City Ground against Al Qadsiah ended in a goalless draw—the fifth zero-zero result of a mixed pre-season. While defensive solidity was evident, fans are eager for more attacking threat. Ola Aina, a key defender, emphasised after the friendly that the squad was aiming to improve finishing just in time for the competitive fixtures: “The real competition begins next week. That’s when we need to start finding the net”.
There is optimism about the attacking talent, with Ndoye, Igor Jesus, and Chris Wood all showing glimpses of their ability. However, depth in wide areas and further midfield support remain on the shopping list before September. Forest reportedly had a £35million offer rejected for Ipswich winger Omari Hutchinson, underlining their ambitions to strengthen out wide.
Squad Depth and Tactical Adjustments
Nuno’s summer focus has included squad depth and tactical flexibility. Defensive options have shifted given injuries and player exits, with Aina and Williams expected to be regular starters if fit. Morgan Gibbs-White remains the creative force, and his recent contract extension secures Forest’s midfield dynamism for years to come. Anderson, Sangare, and Yates are all contenders for central roles, with competition fierce for starting places.
Midfield arrivals have helped, but the manager is still eyeing up at least one more player and another winger before the window shuts. With European football adding fixture congestion, Forest’s bench will be crucial in sustaining a strong league and continental campaign.
Club Vision: Owner, Infrastructure, and Community
Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis has publicly supported Nuno, stressing the shared vision for success. Off the pitch, the club is advancing plans for the redevelopment of the City Ground—a project designed to boost facilities, matchday experience, and financial sustainability.
The club’s professional environment, attention to youth pathways, and investment in the community have elevated its standing in the Midlands. Local experts and former players applaud Forest’s ambition, but caution that squad gelling and quick adaptation to the pressures of European football are key.
The Road Ahead: European Nights and Domestic Aspirations
Forest will kick off the Premier League season against Brentford on 16August, followed by the first leg in the UEFA Conference League playoffs on 21August. Fixture planners indicate a challenging start, but fans are confident the club’s new signings and mature leadership will spark a successful season.
Conclusion
Nottingham Forest is a club in transition, balancing tradition with modern ambition. The 2025 summer window provided excitement, smart business, and hope. With Nuno Espírito Santo at the helm, a blend of new signings, seasoned professionals, and youthful energy, Forest supporters can look forward to a season brimming with possibility. European nights beckon, and the City Ground pulses with belief that Forest’s journey has only just begun.
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