It feels like just yesterday Nottingham Forest were celebrating their promotion from the Championship, but this Saturday, they kick off their third consecutive season in the Premier League. Before Nuno EspÃrito Santo's side face Bournemouth at the City Ground, *The Athletic
takes a look at their pre-season preparations and the key questions for the upcoming campaign.
A Summer of Sensibility
Forest's summer transfer activity has been a far cry from their previous seasons. Every signing has been carefully considered, demonstrating a calculated approach to strengthening the squad. The departures of Orel Mangala and Moussa Niakhate to Lyon, while a loss to the team, ensure the club remains within the Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules, avoiding the risk of another points deduction. This is notable, especially given the club's decision to retain key players like Murillo and Morgan Gibbs-White.
The early business has given Nuno the opportunity to work extensively with his revamped squad, and while not spectacular, there have been signs of progress in their pre-season performances, culminating in a 4-3 victory over Greek side Olympiacos.
A Stronger Foundation?
Forest, despite their 17th-place finish last season, are undoubtedly in a better place now. While further additions to the squad are still expected â including a potential move for Crystal Palace goalkeeper Sam Johnstone â the arrivals of Carlos Miguel, Nikola Milenkovic, Eric Moreira, Elliot Anderson, and Jota Silva have added balance and depth.
With the retained core and the new signings, Forest have a more complete squad, and the stability provided by resisting a managerial change gives Nuno a platform to build upon.
Murillo: The Man to Watch
One player generating considerable excitement is Brazilian centre-back Murillo. The 22-year-old's impressive passing range and willingness to join attacks, combined with his defensive prowess, make him a unique talent. His potential is immense, and fans will be eager to witness his continued development.
Sangare: A Point to Prove
Ibrahim Sangare, a £30 million arrival from PSV Eindhoven last season, struggled for consistency due to illness, injury, and international commitments. However, he has impressed in pre-season, appearing athletic, sharp, and confident. Forest will be hoping he can emulate the success of Orel Mangala, who flourished in his second season after a slow start.
Moreira: Breakout Potential
Young full-back/winger Eric Moreira is another player generating buzz. Despite only one first-team appearance for St Pauli, he was a standout performer for Germany at both the Under-17 European Championship and World Cup last year. Forest will be patient with the 18-year-old, but his physical attributes suggest he has the potential to thrive in the Premier League.
Areas for Improvement
While the transfer window remains open, Forest need to clear out some fringe players. Joe Worrall, Emmanuel Dennis, and Omar Richards are not in Nuno's plans, and their lack of playing time will not benefit them or the club. Finding clubs for these players will be a priority before the window closes.
Milenkovic: The Perfect Addition?
Nikola Milenkovic, a towering defender who started all three group games for Serbia at the Euros, has the potential to form a formidable partnership with Murillo at the heart of the defence. His aerial prowess and strength will be invaluable assets for Forest.
Nuno's Chance to Shine
The opening game against Bournemouth is crucial for Nuno. He'll be keen to show how his team has evolved under his leadership and establish an identity. The game represents a fresh start, with the potential to showcase the exciting potential of the squad.
Set Piece Success: A Key to Progress
Forest conceded a league-high 22 goals from set pieces last season, while scoring only seven themselves. This is an area that needs significant improvement. The arrivals of Milenkovic and Anderson, with his precise dead-ball delivery, offer hope for a turnaround in this area.
Nuno's Future
While Nuno enjoys the club's renewed confidence in him, this season will be crucial. He will be judged on his ability to deliver consistent improvement and steer the club away from another relegation battle.
Best XI (as it stands)
Nuno will face the challenge of finding a way to get both Gibbs-White and Anderson into the starting XI. The likely formation is a 4-2-3-1, which could mean Anderson operating as a winger or even a deeper midfielder.
A Good Season Means...
Avoiding a serious relegation threat and securing a comfortable mid-table finish would be considered a successful season. While ambitions are higher, establishing themselves in the Premier League and building a consistent team identity will be the focus.
Predicted Finish
While many pundits predict Forest to struggle, their strengthened squad and the manager's experience suggest they are capable of more than just a relegation battle. A finish in the mid-table region, around 12th or 13th, seems achievable if they can improve their set-piece performance and continue to gel as a team under Nuno. This season is a chance for Forest to prove they truly belong among the Premier League elite.