Nuno Espirito Santo has shut down rumours linking him with a departure from Nottingham Forest, insisting talk of him manipulating a move away is “nonsense”.
The 51-year-old Portuguese coach raised eyebrows last week when he admitted his relationship with Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis had “changed” and that they “are not as close”. Those words sparked fears of a looming split, particularly given the club’s well-documented turbulence at boardroom level.
Nuno’s Strong Rebuttal to Exit Rumours
Ahead of Forest’s Premier League clash with Crystal Palace, Nuno was asked whether he was angling for an exit after admitting his relationship with Evangelos Marinakis had “changed”. The speculation had sparked doubts over his long-term commitment, with some suggesting he might be looking to engineer a move away.
The Portuguese coach firmly dismissed the claims, stressing his focus remains on the pitch rather than boardroom politics:
“That’s nonsense. Doesn’t make any kind of sense. We are focused on the game and that is more important.” — Nuno Espirito Santo, Sky Sports
Nuno’s emphatic denial was also aimed at reassuring his players, with several squad members reportedly unsettled by the ongoing uncertainty. His public stance may help stabilise the mood in the dressing room, at least in the short term.
Nuno’s Tense Relationship With Forest’s Owner
Although Nuno guided Forest into Europe last season and began the current campaign with a win over Brentford, his position is reportedly far from secure.
BBC Sport sources suggest Marinakis has grown frustrated with aspects of the manager’s approach, while the playing squad are also said to be aware of the uncertainty.
The Forest boss confirmed he will hold talks with Marinakis and global head of football Edu regarding transfers, signalling the need for alignment ahead of a demanding season.
Why the Tension Matters
Nottingham Forest’s ambitious transfer activity and European commitments have raised expectations. Nuno’s tactical organisation was key to Forest’s progress last season, but without clarity over his future, doubts could destabilise both dressing room and recruitment plans.
Nuno Espirito Santo at Nottingham Forest — Record So Far
| Season | Games | Wins | Draws | Losses | Win % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023/24 | 38 | 14 | 11 | 13 | 36.8% |
| 2024/25* | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 100% |
*Premier League 2024/25 season ongoing
The stats underline his achievement — stabilising Forest in the Premier League while securing European football. But tensions at board level could undermine that progress.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William:
“Nuno is walking a tightrope. He’s proven he can organise Forest and deliver results, but the political tension with Marinakis is dangerous. If the owner loses faith, history shows Forest won’t hesitate to make a change.”
“The squad is sensing instability. Players need certainty about the manager’s future — especially with Europe ahead. If the noise continues, it could derail their season before it truly starts.”
Key Insights
- Nuno insists speculation of leaving Forest is “nonsense”.
- Confirms relationship with owner Marinakis has “changed”.
- Sources suggest his job is not completely safe.
- Players are reportedly aware of the uncertainty.
- Forest face Crystal Palace amid ongoing tension.
What’s Next for Forest?
Forest head into a crucial run of early-season fixtures while preparing for European qualifiers. Nuno’s immediate focus is on results, starting at Selhurst Park, but off-pitch discussions with Marinakis and Edu could decide his long-term future.
If talks break down, Forest could face yet another managerial upheaval. But if Nuno and Marinakis can rebuild trust, Forest’s European adventure could become a platform for further progress.
Should Nottingham Forest back Nuno long-term, or is change inevitable under Marinakis?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 24 Aug 2025 16:19
His time is up this cant go longer on - you cant work somewhere where the owner and Edu doesn't want you.. He's just waiting for that payment and will move on. But who would be Forest perfect fit that is available right now? Ange? Maybe Jose, not a Forest fan but who would they want to have.
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