Alious
Following Forest’s impressive start to the 2024/25 Premier League season, it’s worth examining the significant transformation t
he club has undergone since December 2023, when owner Evangelos Marinakis appointed Nuno Espirito Santo to replace Steve Cooper.
While Espirito Santo’s tenure began with uncertainty, including two instances where his position appeared precarious, the team ultimately secured Premier League survival, albeit narrowly.
The manager’s first match against Bournemouth resulted in a defeat, though this was followed by notable victories against Newcastle United and Manchester United.
The Bournemouth fixture was particularly challenging due to Willy Boly’s controversial dismissal, which left Forest with ten men for the majority of the match.
Comparing the initial lineup under Espirito Santo to the current squad reveals significant evolution in personnel and performance.
In goal, Matt Turner has since moved to Crystal Palace on loan, replaced by Matz Sels.
The defense has seen varying fortunes: Neco Williams has recently returned to prominence, while Willy Boly has struggled with injuries and faces speculation about a move to Saudi Arabia.
Murillo has emerged as a cornerstone of the defense, with his market value now estimated at £70 million.
The midfield has undergone substantial changes.
Ryan Yates has retained the captaincy and benefited from injuries to secure regular playing time.
Orel Mangala departed for Lyon before joining Everton on loan.
In attack, while Divock Origi’s tenure proved disappointing with just one FA Cup goal, Morgan Gibbs-White has flourished under Espirito Santo’s guidance.
Chris Wood has experienced a remarkable scoring renaissance, vindicating the manager’s faith in him.
Notable developments among the substitutes include Odysseas Vlachodimos’s £20 million transfer to Newcastle, Moussa Niakhate’s move to Lyon, and Nuno Tavares finding success in Italy.
Several players remain integral to the current squad, including Ola Aina, who is approaching a contract extension, and Callum Hudson-Odoi, who has established himself as a regular starter.
This transformation under Espirito Santo’s leadership, particularly following a complete pre-season, has positioned Forest as a competitive force in the Premier League, leading supporters to contemplate the possibility of European competition, though significant challenges still lie ahead.
Alious
