English Premier League side Nottingham Forest have dismissed manager Nuno Espirito Santo after just three games into the season.
The Portuguese manager opened up about the state of his relationship which had changed with club owner Evangelos Marinakis last month during a press conference.
He revealed that the situation had changed and had deteriorated especially since the arrival of Edu Gaspar, who joined from Arsenal, sparking intense rumors of an exit despite just signing a contract extension in June.
“Where there’s smoke, there’s fire, so I know how things work, but I’m here to do my job,” Nuno said last month.
Nuno also publicly criticized the club’s transfer strategy before the commencement of the season, with few additions despite more engagements this season.
“Nottingham Forest Football Club confirms that, following recent circumstances, Nuno Espirito Santo has today been relieved of his duties as head coach.
The club thanks Nuno for his contribution during a very successful era at the City Ground, in particular his role in the 2024/25 season, which will forever be remembered fondly in the history of the club”, the club revealed in a statement.
The 51-year-old took over as manager from Steve Cooper in December 2023 and helped the club to avoid relegation in that campaign.
Nuno also led them to a return to Europe for the first time in 30 years, with Forest set to compete in the UEFA Europa League this season.
He has led the club to four points from three matches this season, with his last involvement being the disappointing 3-0 home defeat to West Ham United before the international break.
“As someone who played a pivotal role in our success last season, he will always hold a special place in our journey.”
Edu Gaspar will work alongside Ross Wilson to appoint a replacement, with reports identifying former Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou and Jose Mourinho as top candidates for the job.
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