Willy Boly expected to leave Nottingham Forest in January as contract winds down

Willy Boly’s time at Nottingham Forest appears to be reaching its conclusion, with reports from Africa indicating that the defender is expected to depart in January rather than see out the remainder of his contract. The 34-year-old has slipped down the pecking order over the past year, and the arrival of multiple managers in quick succession has only made it harder for him to regain a meaningful role.

Last season brought just 446 minutes of Premier League football across nine appearances, and this campaign has offered little encouragement. Nuno Espírito Santo began the year without integrating Boly, and Ange Postecoglou only used him twice before his departure. Sean Dyche, appointed in October, has not relied on the experienced centre-back either, leaving him rooted to the bench for much of the early winter.

According to reports, Forest have already opted against offering a contract extension, leaving Boly free to negotiate a move in January. The expectation, sources claim, is that he will pursue an exit quickly, given the need for regular minutes to remain in contention for Ivory Coast’s World Cup squad. The defender has made just one appearance for his country since the start of last season, further highlighting how far his international prospects have stalled.

Forest’s decision not to extend Boly's deal — which expires in the summer — effectively signals the end of his spell at the City Ground. Rather than allow the situation to drift, both club and player are understood to be aligned on a winter exit. At 34, Boly needs consistent football, and Forest are reshaping their defensive options under Dyche, who prefers a more compact and physical back line but has still not turned to the Ivorian.

Financial considerations also play a role. Boly earns approximately £40,000 per week, and moving him on early would free wages while allowing Forest to potentially reinvest in January. For the player, the incentives are even clearer: match fitness, visibility and any realistic hope of representing his nation at the next World Cup depend on a swift move.

Boly’s experience remains valued across several European and Middle Eastern leagues, and his physical presence still suits systems that rely on deep defensive organisation. While his minutes at Forest have dwindled, his ability to read danger, dominate aerial duels and provide leadership makes him a viable short-term signing for sides in need of stability.

His international situation increases the urgency. Ivory Coast will update their plans ahead of World Cup preparations next year, and Boly needs active competition to re-enter those discussions. A fresh environment could offer the reset he requires.

Forest have entered a period of transition, with Dyche focusing on defensive discipline after a turbulent start. Boly’s departure will allow room for a younger, more durable centre-back to arrive, aligning with the club’s strategy of reducing average squad age and lowering future wage liabilities.

Forest now prepare for the January window while continuing their Premier League campaign under Dyche’s reshaped structure. Boly’s representatives are expected to explore options across Europe and abroad, with a decision likely within weeks rather than months.

👉 Forest fans — is Boly’s exit overdue, or does his experience still offer value the club will miss?