Flash in the pan or a new chapter for Nottingham Forest?

Nottingham Forest’s impressive start to the Premier League campaign has raised a few eyebrows in the football world.

Currently sitting fifth after the second international break, Forest’s Premier League journey has been a challenging one, but their recent progress signals an exciting new chapter for the club. After a summer of carefully planned signings, manager Nuno Espirito Santos has assembled a squad that is more balanced, resilient, and equipped to tackle the demands of the Premier League.

What’s Changed?

Under Nuno, Forest’s style of play has evolved significantly.

Moving away from the “backs to the wall” approach that defined Steve Cooper’s guidance in the top flight, the team now plays with more attacking purpose.

This is not a critique of Cooper, who laid the foundations for Forest’s survival in their first season back in the Premier League. Cooper’s achievements are even more impressive given that Forest made over 30 signings during that campaign, with high expectations from owner Evangelos Marinakis, someone not known on settling for mediocrity.

Ball retention and possession have markedly improved under Nuno, and whilst the team has still conceded some avoidable goals since the Portuguese coach took over, their overall defensive solidity has been prioritised and strengthened through smart work in the transfer market.

Key Signings That Have Transformed the Team

The standout signing of the summer was Serbian international Nikola Milenković, acquired from Fiorentina for a reported £14 million.

The towering centre-back, who also captains Serbia, has quickly become a cornerstone of Forest’s defence. Milenković brings the physicality, aerial dominance, and leadership expected from a Serbian defender, but it’s his experience, calmness and composure that have truly set him apart from other acquisitions over the summer.

His presence has had a transformative effect on the defence, notably on Brazilian defender Murillo. The young Brazilian, who had already shown great promise, has continued to flourish alongside Milenković, improving his defensive maturity.

This solid partnership has been one of the key factors as to why Forest have conceded fewer goals than at the same point last season and currently boast one of the meanest defences this campaign. It’s no coincidence that Murillo’s impressive form alongside the Serb has earned him a call-up to the Brazilian national team.

The duo’s ability to pass the ball confidently has also become a vital outlet for Forest’s transition play, adding an extra dimension to build attacks from defence.

Another key acquisition was Spanish full-back Alex Moreno, who arrived on loan from Aston Villa.

Moreno has provided much-needed quality and depth to Forest’s defence, particularly in their build-up play. His eagerness to run down the flank has injected pace and creativity into Forest’s attacking play, making him a consistent performer since joining.

Matz Sels has been in excellent form following the arrival of giant Brazilian keeper Carlos Miguel. With his position now under greater pressure, Sels has risen to the challenge and improved his form from a solid start since joining the club in January.

Midfield Depth and Adaptability

The summer also saw the addition of experienced midfielder, James Ward-Prowse, which has allowed Nuno to vary his line-ups. Despite injuries to key players like Danilo and Ibrahim Sangaré early in the season, Forest have coped well, thanks to a deep and flexible midfield.

Elliot Anderson, signed from Newcastle, has quickly settled into his new surroundings. While he is still finding his best position, the Scottish U21 international has already shown glimpses of his quality on the ball and offers more options for Nuno.

Ryan Yates, often an unsung hero, has stepped up in the absence of key midfielders. His tireless work rate, leadership, and consistency have been vital in maintaining Forest’s strength in midfield.

Argentine Nico Domínguez has also emerged as a key player, pushing for a spot in the starting XI.

Meanwhile, the arrival of Jota Silva from Vitoria in Portugal has provided a burst of enthusiasm, with the attacking midfielder making an instant impact as a substitute as he grasps the opportunity of his ‘dream move’ to the Premier League.

The Striker Dilemma

One area where Forest has faced frustration is in their failure to secure a backup striker over the summer. Nigerian Taiwo Awonyi, who showed promise last season, has struggled with injuries, and Chris Wood has become the primary striker over the past year.

Since Cooper’s departure, Wood’s form has been a revelation, with the striker arguably playing the best football in his career under Nuno.

Previously looking poor value for a rumoured £16m fee from Newcastle in January 2023,  the New Zealand international’s goal returns are currently up there with the very best in the Premier League.

That said, Forest would be naive to fully rely on this output. With the ongoing fitness and form issues surrounding Awonyi,  reinforcement in the striking department looks likely in the January transfer window.

Resilience Through Setbacks

Forest’s journey back to the Premier League has not been without its challenges.

The club was heavily criticised after making a large number of signings in the summer of 2022, with many questioning whether the changes would disrupt the team’s cohesion. However, Forest have proven they can adapt and thrive, despite the upheaval. After narrowly surviving relegation last season, this year they’ve shown considerable improvement.

Yet, a recent 3-1 defeat to Newcastle was a sobering reminder of their vulnerabilities. While Newcastle’s excellent performance exposed some of Forest’s weaknesses, the defeat did not overshadow their impressive start to the season, with the team remaining in the top six.

Squad Spirit 

Forest’s resolve to remain in the Premier League has only strengthened over time, especially amid financial fair play challenges and the infamous fallout with the PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited). These setbacks have only galvanised the team, with the club embracing the philosophy that adversity makes them stronger.

After two difficult seasons back in the top flight, Forest are now acclimatising to the demands of Premier League football, and the confidence within the squad is palpable.

Full-back Ola Aina epitomizes the positive atmosphere at the club. His close connection with supporters and his central role in the camaraderie at training and after victories highlights the team’s growing sense of unity and optimism.

The Road Ahead

Looking ahead, Forest’s upcoming fixtures will clearly indicate how far they have come. Matches against Arsenal, Ipswich Town, and a difficult back-to-back set of trips to Manchester (United and City) will test their development. These games will be pivotal in determining whether Forest can maintain their strong start and push for a top-half finish.

While players like Callum Hudson-Odoi and Anthony Elanga have shown flashes of brilliance, they will need to find greater consistency to help keep Forest in the upper echelons of the Premier League.

If Morgan Gibbs-White can add more goals to his game, it will not only enhance Forest’s attacking threat but also boost his chances of making England’s World Cup squad next summer.

As the season progresses, Forest are building a team that is not only resilient but also capable of competing in the top half of the Premier League.

If they can stay healthy and continue their strong form, there is no reason why Forest can’t challenge for a top-half finish and potentially aim for European competition in the near future.

With a tough run of fixtures ahead, the coming month will be crucial in determining whether these ambitions can be realised.

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