Nottingham Forest is set for significant squad adjustments as head coach Nuno Espirito Santo aims to streamline the team ahead of the upcoming season. With a focus on working with a smaller, more manageable squad, several players face uncertain futures at the City Ground. Here’s a detailed look at the key players who are on notice and the decisions facing Nuno Espirito Santo.
Players Already Departed
Nottingham Forest has already made substantial changes to their squad, releasing several players at the end of their contracts and returning loanees to their parent clubs. Notable departures include:
-Wayne Hennessey
-Felipe
– Cheikhou Kouyate
– Loic Mbe Soh
– Scott McKenna
– Harry Arter
Additionally, loan players Gonzalo Montiel, Divock Origi, Nuno Tavares, Gio Reyna, and Rodrigo Ribeiro have returned to their parent clubs. Permanent transfers have also seen Odysseas Vlachodimos, Brandon Aguilera, Orel Mangala, and Moussa Niakhate leave the club, while Jonathan Panzo and new signing Marko Stamenic have gone out on loan.
Players with Uncertain Futures
Joe Worrall
Joe Worrall, who spent the latter part of last season on loan at Besiktas, is expected to move on this summer. Despite being a product of the Nigel Doughty Academy and having a long-standing connection with Forest, Worrall’s future appears to lie elsewhere, with Sheffield United expressing interest. Nuno has indicated that decisions about players returning from loan spells will be made carefully to benefit their careers.
Matt Turner
The American goalkeeper finds himself in a challenging position with the arrival of Brazilian Carlos Miguel. Turner, who joined Forest 12 months ago seeking game time, is now third in the pecking order behind Miguel and Matz Sels. With interest from MLS clubs, Turner might seek opportunities elsewhere to ensure regular playing time.
Josh Bowler
Winger Josh Bowler’s future at Forest looks uncertain, particularly after his subdued reaction to scoring against Chesterfield and his omission from Nuno’s list of winger options. Having experienced multiple loan spells since joining in 2022, a permanent move could be in the best interest of both Bowler and the club.
Nuno’s Transfer Strategy
Nuno Espirito Santo’s preference for a smaller squad is driving these changes. The head coach aims to work with a tightly-knit group of players to ensure better management and tactical flexibility. Forest’s active approach in the transfer market, both in terms of outgoings and potential incomings, highlights their commitment to building a squad capable of securing their place in the Premier League for a third consecutive season.
Forest’s Future
The club’s ongoing transfer activity indicates a strategic overhaul aimed at balancing the squad and improving performance. By offloading surplus players and focusing on key areas for reinforcement, Forest is setting the stage for a competitive season ahead. Fans can expect more changes as Nuno and his team finalize their squad decisions, with the ultimate goal of achieving stability and success in the Premier League.
Stay Updated
Nottingham Forest fans can stay updated on all transfer developments, managerial decisions, and other significant news by joining the club’s WhatsApp community. This initiative ensures that supporters receive the latest updates directly to their phones, keeping them informed about all the crucial happenings at the club.
