Nottingham Forest Nuno Espirito Santo 2025 drama took center stage this weekend after an explosive post-match confrontation between the manager and club owner Evangelos Marinakis. Following a 2-2 draw with Leicester that dented Forest’s Champions League hopes, Marinakis charged onto the pitch, prompting widespread criticism from fans and pundits.
Manchester United icon Gary Neville was among the most vocal, calling the owner’s actions unacceptable and urging Nuno to walk away.
“Scandalous from that Forest owner. Nuno should go and negotiate his exit tonight with him!”
— Gary Neville, via social media
If Nuno does decide to leave the City Ground, Forest may need to act quickly. Here are four realistic and high-upside candidates who could take the reins.
Davide Ancelotti: The Rising Star
With Carlo Ancelotti heading to manage Brazil, his son Davide is expected to begin his solo managerial journey. After working as an assistant at Bayern Munich, Napoli, Everton, and Real Madrid, Davide Ancelotti is regarded across Europe as a tactical mind ready to lead a team on his own. While he has been linked with Rangers, a Premier League opportunity—especially one with potential European football—may tempt him toward Nottingham Forest.
Oliver Glasner: Premier League Proven
Oliver Glasner has made an instant impact at Crystal Palace, bringing clarity, structure, and results to a side previously lacking consistency. With Palace pushing toward mid-table safety and an FA Cup final appearance, Glasner’s 3-4-3 system has earned plaudits. If Forest secure a European spot or pitch a more ambitious project, Glasner could be swayed to switch clubs.
Kjetil Knutsen: The European Giant Slayer
Kjetil Knutsen has become one of Europe’s most respected under-the-radar coaches for his work at Norwegian club Bodo/Glimt. He has guided the team to memorable European nights, defeating heavyweights like Roma, Celtic, Lazio, and Porto. Known for his tactical flexibility and ability to build cohesive units from underdog squads, Knutsen could bring a bold and modern approach to Forest.
Kieran McKenna: A Premier League Return?
Despite suffering relegation with Ipswich, Kieran McKenna remains a manager in high demand. The former Manchester United coach guided Ipswich through most of the season punching above their weight. With top-level tactical intelligence and strong man-management skills, McKenna may view Forest as a platform to redeem his top-flight status and prove he belongs in the Premier League.
Managerial Options at a Glance
| Candidate | Key Strength | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| Davide Ancelotti | Elite coaching pedigree | Linked with Rangers |
| Oliver Glasner | Premier League proven | Managing Crystal Palace |
| Kjetil Knutsen | European expertise | Still at Bodo/Glimt |
| Kieran McKenna | Tactical development | Recently relegated with Ipswich |
- Nuno Espirito Santo’s position is under threat after a public confrontation with Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis.
- Gary Neville has called for Nuno to leave, describing the owner's behavior as “scandalous.”
- Four realistic replacements are being considered: Davide Ancelotti, Oliver Glasner, Kjetil Knutsen, and Kieran McKenna.
- Each candidate offers a unique strength, from European experience to Premier League-proven tactics.
- Forest’s managerial decision could define their 2025 ambitions, especially with European football potentially on the horizon.
What Happens Next for Forest?
Nuno’s future at Nottingham Forest is now uncertain, and much depends on whether tensions with the club's ownership can be resolved quickly. With European ambitions and a strong squad already in place, this next managerial decision could shape the club’s trajectory for years to come.
Who Should Replace Nuno?
Will Forest go for youth, experience, or a European wildcard? Drop your pick in the comments and let us know who you think should lead the club forward.
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