Nottingham Forest is on the verge of achieving something extraordinary, sitting proudly in third place in the Premier League at the season’s halfway mark. With 37 points from 19 matches, the Reds are exceeding all expectations, and their impressive form has transformed the mood at the City Ground.
Under Nuno Espírito Santo, Forest has become one of the league’s standout teams. The manager has received high praise, including from pundit Jamie Redknapp, for the stellar job he’s done with the squad. Despite facing pressure last season when owner Evangelos Marinakis reportedly considered replacing him twice, Nuno has proven his worth, silencing doubters and leading the club into uncharted territory.
### Marinakis’ Ambitious Promise to Nuno
With Forest now eyeing a European spot, this season could mark one of the most memorable in the club’s modern history. Marinakis, known for his passion and ambition, is ready to reward success. According to reports, Nuno’s contract includes a lucrative bonus if he can guide the Reds to European football for the first time since the 1995/96 season. Such a reward reflects how far the club has come and Marinakis’ commitment to keeping Forest on an upward trajectory.
### From Survival Hopes to European Dreams
At the start of the campaign, avoiding relegation would have been considered a solid achievement. Now, the prospect of European nights at the City Ground has fans dreaming big. Whether it’s the Champions League, Europa League, or Conference League, any of these competitions would be an incredible achievement, restoring Forest to their historical pedigree on the European stage.
### Revisiting the Glory Days
For many supporters, memories of Forest’s European triumphs, including their back-to-back trophies, remain a cornerstone of the club’s identity. For others, the 1995/96 UEFA Cup run under Frank Clark, which saw Forest reach the quarter-finals, is a cherished highlight. That campaign featured unforgettable matches and showcased the City Ground as a fortress.
Today’s European competitions differ significantly, with expanded formats and more matches. But for fans, the idea of competing on the continent once again feels like a dream coming to life.
With Nuno at the helm and the unwavering backing of Marinakis, Forest’s remarkable resurgence has captured the imagination of their supporters, leaving them to wonder just how high this team can climb.