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Nottingham Forest’s owner Evangelos Marinakis has provided insights into the club’s strategic direction and transfer window expectations, reflecting on the team’s remarkable journey since his acquisition of the club in 2017. The Greek shipping magnate, who also owns Olympiacos, oversaw Forest’s return to the Premier League after a 23-year absence, marked by an aggressive recruitment strategy that dramatically reshaped the team’s roster.
Initially drawing attention for signing numerous players and narrowly avoiding relegation in their first two Premier League seasons, Forest has recently experienced a significant turnaround. Under new manager Nuno Espirito Santo, the team has climbed to sixth place after 14 matches, demonstrating considerable improvement. This progress comes despite Marinakis’s own controversies, including a five-match ban for an incident involving referee Josh Smith.
In a candid interview with Sky Sports, Marinakis tempered expectations regarding the upcoming January transfer window by highlighting Financial Fair Play restrictions. However, he simultaneously expressed an ambitious long-term vision for the club, emphasizing the importance of dreaming big and maintaining patience.
Marinakis’s philosophy extends beyond mere financial investment. He views club ownership as a responsibility to millions of supporters rather than a straightforward business transaction. His approach is deeply rooted in emotional connection, particularly drawing inspiration from Forest’s historic success in the 1980s.
The owner is expanding his multi-club model, which currently includes Olympiacos and Portuguese side Rio Ave, with potential expansions into Brazil and Italy. Notably, he is set to bring in Edu, the former Arsenal technical director widely credited with transforming the north London club’s sporting strategy, to work across his global football portfolio.
Marinakis remains outspoken about technological challenges in football, particularly VAR, pledging to continue critiquing the system until meaningful improvements are made. His commitment appears focused on creating sustainable success through strategic planning, measured investment, and a profound respect for football’s traditions and fan base.
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