Twelve months ago, Nottingham Forest were fighting tooth and nail to avoid relegation from the Premier League. Fast forward to today, and they find themselves in sixth place, just two points adrift of the Champions League spots—a testament to their incredible transformation under Nuno Espírito Santo. Yet, despite their remarkable progress, recent struggles have sparked frustration among fans and raised questions about their ability to sustain their European push.
The Dramatic Turnaround
Last season, Forest were a point above the drop zone with three games remaining. This campaign, they’ve defied expectations, securing Europa League football at the very least. However, their recent dip in form—just one win in their last six league matches—has cast doubt over their Champions League aspirations.
What’s behind this slump?
Possession Paradox: A Tactical Dilemma
Historically, Forest have thrived as a counter-attacking side, preferring to cede possession and strike on the break. Recent matches, however, have seen them dominate the ball more—averaging 45.1% possession in their last five games compared to 38.1% in the previous seven. Ironically, this shift has coincided with poorer results.
Opponents may have adapted, sitting deeper and denying Forest the space they exploit so effectively. Their only recent victory came against Tottenham—a game where Spurs dominated 70% possession but were picked apart on the counter.
The Marinakis Factor: Ambitious Vision Meets Reality
Owner Evangelos Marinakis has never hidden his lofty ambitions for Forest. When he took over in 2017, he spoke of restoring the club to European glory—a statement many dismissed as unrealistic. Yet, here they are, on the cusp of Champions League qualification.
Evangelos Marinakis overseeing Nottingham Forest’s resurgence
Marinakis’ expectations are clear: Champions League football is the target. Even if they fall short this season, he will demand progress next year—whether in the Europa League or beyond.
Summer Transfer Plans: Two Scenarios
Forest’s summer spending will hinge on their European fate:
- With Champions League qualification: Expect three to four elite signings, funded by an estimated £80-100m windfall.
- Without it: A more measured approach, but still significant investment to bridge the gap.
Crucially, Marinakis has shown reluctance to sell key players like Morgan Gibbs-White or Anthony Elanga, rejecting a £50m bid for the latter in January.
Morgan Gibbs-White remains central to Forest’s plans
The Final Push: Leicester & Chelsea Loom Large
Nuno’s immediate challenge is reigniting belief in the squad. With games against Leicester and West Ham before a potentially decisive clash with Chelsea, Forest must rediscover their early-season identity.
Key Takeaways for Baji live Readers:
- Forest’s counter-attacking strength is being neutralized as opponents adapt.
- Marinakis’ ambition means failure to qualify won’t slow their progress.
- Summer transfers will be aggressive, with or without Champions League football.
- The final-day clash with Chelsea could be a winner-takes-all showdown.
Conclusion: A Season of Overachievement—Or Just the Beginning?
Nottingham Forest’s rise has been nothing short of extraordinary. Whether they secure Champions League football or settle for the Europa League, one thing is certain: Baji live will be tracking their every move as they aim to disrupt the Premier League’s established order.
Can Forest defy the odds once more? Share your thoughts below and stay tuned for more in-depth analysis on Baji live!
