Nottingham Forest’s Premier League rise this season has been nothing short of incredible, thanks largely to the unexpected guidance of Nuno Espírito Santo.
Under his reign as Forest boss, three standout players have emerged as true game-changers, each playing a pivotal role in the club’s remarkable turnaround.
Embed from Getty ImagesIn this article, guest writer Harry McBain and I dive into the contributions of these players and explore how their performances have propelled Forest into the top end of the Premier League table.
While Nuno’s tactical tweaks have been crucial, Forest’s ascent would not be possible without the standout seasons of three key players.
These individuals have not only elevated their own game but have also been instrumental in transforming the Forest’s fortunes.
Embed from Getty ImagesOla Aina
A key figure marauding up and down the right flank, Ola Aina has been a crucial man for Forest this season.
His ability to stop nearly every winger he faces, shutting down chances and putting in flying tackles, is matched only by his energy going forward to join in Forest’s trademark counterattacks.
Aina’s importance also comes off the field where his personality shines through, creating a great atmosphere amongst the squad, with his bromance with Callum Hudson-Odoi and Anthony Elanga helping to maintain an energetic mood amongst the squad.
His standout moment this season has been his performance in Forest’s dominant 3-0 home victory against West Ham at the City Ground, with the full-back keeping the Hammers attackers in his back pocket before a darting drive forward and unleashing a thunderbolt strike in front of the Trent End and into the top corner.
This result was vital for Forest, beating a side that historically have had a good run against the Reds.
Matz Sels
The next player who has been vital for Nuno’s side is goalkeeper Matt Sels, who’s stable presence in goal has been a welcome surprise for Forest fans who have seen a steady turnover of goalkeepers since their promotion with the likes of Kaylor Navas, Dean Henderson and Matt Turner to mention a few.
With Sels in between the sticks, Forest have stopped leaking in as many poor goals and his shot stopping ability matched with the duo of Murillo and Nikola Milenkovic ahead of him has led to one of the best defensive records in the Premier League.
Sels, a man who signed at Forest in January 2024 with little excitement at his arrival, has made his name amongst the fanbase as he pulls out performances like the he did at Anfield this season as Forest won 1-0.
A great save was made even better as Sels reflexes stopped a spilled ball rolling into the goal before his experience helped Forest to see out their lead and pick up a first win at Liverpool in 55 years.
Morgan Gibbs-White
Forest’s captain Morgan Gibbs-White is the final name to have made such a vital impact in this success season. The heavy price tag on his name has been no burden for the attacking midfielder since his arrival at the City Ground, establishing himself as Forest’s main man.
His leadership this year, taking rights on the armband, has shone through and he has really stepped up this season to direct the team and help lead the line, igniting players and fans alike into really believing in what Forest can achieve this season.
Gibbs-White’s standout moment this season was his involvement during Forest’s historic 7-0 home victory against Brighton. He started off the tie by setting up the first goal, a fizzing ball which forced Lewis Dunk to turn it into his own net, before heading in a goal of his own.
He capped off the performance by securing a penalty, allowing Chris Wood to step up and secure his hat-trick.
How Nuno Espírito Santo Has Transformed Forest
The impact that Nuno Espirito Santo has had since his arrival has been unprecedented, and fans who criticised his arrival have been left shocked.
The culture has changed from underdogs to believers and a more in-depth tactical approach from set-up to substitutes has been a notable change from Steve Cooper’s time. The good times seem to have arrived and Nottingham is starting to believe again.
Ryan Yates, reflecting on Nuno Espírito Santo’s influence at Nottingham Forest, said: “He’s brought a new level of discipline and belief to our squad.”
Nuno’s tactical approach focuses on defensive organisation and quick counter-attacking play. By implementing a compact defensive structure, Forest effectively absorb pressure and transition with speed to catch their opponents off guard.
The Bigger Picture
Nottingham Forest’s resurgence under Nuno Espírito Santo has raised questions about just how far they can go this season. While a push for European qualification may seem ambitious, their current trajectory suggests a top-half finish is within reach.
Stability remains the priority, but with momentum on their side, could Forest dream of a surprise push for the top seven?
Forest’s success this season has been driven by key individual performances, but is that enough for sustained progress? While their core players have delivered, long-term success requires depth and consistency across the squad.
Reinforcements across the park would help provide much-needed stability and depth in Europe, particularly against top-tier opposition. One potential option is striker Tammy Abraham, who was linked with Nottingham Forest during the recent January transfer window, according to Nottinghamshire Live.
His Premier League experience and proven goal-scoring record could bolster Forest’s attacking options next season. With the right additions, Forest could transform this campaign into a platform for long-term European involvement.
Embed from Getty ImagesConclusion
Nottingham Forest’s progress this season has been nothing short of impressive, with Nuno Espírito Santo’s tactical expertise guiding them to newfound stability in the Premier League.
His tactical structure has provided stability, while standout performances from Ola Aina, Matz Sels, and Morgan Gibbs-White have been crucial to their success. However, maintaining this momentum will require smart recruitment, particularly in attack.
With the right additions, such as Tammy Abraham, Forest could build on this foundation and turn their progress into a genuine push for European football.
Written by Isabelle Newnham and Harry McBain
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