Forest under spotlight amid manager owner tensions

Nuno says his relationship with owner Evangelos Marinakis has changed and is not as close.

Nuno Espirito Santo confirms strained ties with Forest owner amid exit rumours

Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo acknowledged a shift in his relationship with owner Evangelos Marinakis as reports of his possible dismissal circulated ahead of the new season. In a pre‑match press conference, he said 'when there’s smoke, there’s fire' and added that their relationship is now 'not as close' after a period of daily contact last season. He had signed a new three‑year contract in June, underscoring his commitment even as the rumours swirled.

He also voiced concern about Forest’s transfer activity, saying the club are short of options ahead of European competition. Forest have recruited Omari Hutchinson and James McAtee, with a deal for Douglas Luiz reportedly completed, and Nuno stressed the need for more options for the squad. While admitting uncertainty over whether his relationship with Marinakis will endure, he insisted his focus remains on helping the team prepare for the campaign ahead.

The admission of a strained owner‑manager relationship highlights a fault line within a club pushing to reestablish itself in European competition. Such tensions can influence decision making, dampen morale, and complicate transfer strategy at a crucial moment. It also exposes how personal dynamics at the top can ripple through the squad, even as the team seeks stability on the pitch.

If Marinakis and Nuno are at odds, players may feel caught between leadership decisions and on‑field aims. Yet the episode could also push the club toward greater transparency and accountability. The real test will be whether Forest can maintain performance and unity while the air is cleared off the pitch, and whether ownership supports a coherent, long‑term plan despite the current noise.

Highlights

The season will reveal whether trust remains as Forest chase Europe.