Managing Nottingham Forest – Yoane Wissa signs, key contract in place, trio leave
Nottingham Forest Look to Build on Promising 2024/25 Season with Ambitious Summer Plans
As the countdown to the 2025/26 Premier League season begins, Nottingham Forest are setting their sights on continuing the upward trajectory they established over the past campaign. After an encouraging year under the leadership of head coach Nuno Espírito Santo, the club is now focused on ensuring that recent progress isn’t just a flash in the pan but the foundation for something even greater.
While Forest narrowly missed out on a top-four finish and a coveted place in the UEFA Champions League, their sixth-place standing was still a significant milestone. For the first time in 30 years, the Reds have earned a spot in European competition—qualifying for the UEFA Europa Conference League, which in itself is a testament to the club’s ongoing revival.
The task now for Nuno and his backroom staff is to capitalize on that success. The Portuguese manager has instilled a clear identity within the squad, and with another busy summer transfer window already underway, Forest have the opportunity to reinforce their ranks and push even further in the upcoming campaign.
Attacking Reinforcements Take Priority
One of the key areas identified for improvement is the forward line. While the experienced Chris Wood led the charge last season, netting 20 goals in all competitions and proving to be a reliable figure in front of goal, Forest’s attacking options were limited. Taiwo Awoniyi, once expected to be a consistent goal threat, endured an injury-hit and inconsistent campaign, which led to questions about the club’s decision not to bolster the front line during the January transfer window. That omission may have cost them a top-five finish.
This summer, the club appears determined not to repeat that mistake. Reports suggest that Forest are closing in on a trio of signings from Brazilian side Botafogo: striker Igor Jesus, left-back Cuiabano, and center-back Jair Cunha. Among the three, the acquisition of Jesus is particularly notable as it addresses Forest’s most glaring need. However, the jump from Brazilian football to the Premier League is no small step, and the 23-year-old forward may need time to adjust to the physicality and pace of the English game.
That’s why many fans and pundits alike believe another striker—ideally one with Premier League experience—should be brought in to complement the incoming Brazilian. A name that continues to crop up is Brentford’s Yoane Wissa. Forest made an approach for the Congo international in January and are reportedly considering reviving that interest. Wissa’s versatility and proven track record in England’s top flight make him an ideal candidate to provide depth and experience, and if Forest can pull off the double signing of Jesus and Wissa, it would significantly elevate their attacking prowess heading into a demanding season on multiple fronts.
Securing Key Players on New Deals
As important as new arrivals are, retaining and securing the services of Forest’s most influential players is just as crucial. Morgan Gibbs-White has been one of the standout performers at the City Ground, attracting interest from elite clubs, including Manchester City. However, recent reports indicate that Pep Guardiola’s side has cooled their interest due to Forest’s hefty asking price—believed to be in the region of £70–100 million.
For Forest, keeping hold of Gibbs-White is a priority. Not only is he integral to the team’s style of play and attacking dynamism, but his leadership and consistency make him a cornerstone of the club’s project. While his current contract runs until 2027, the club would be wise to begin negotiations over a new and improved deal to protect his value and demonstrate their long-term commitment to him.
There are several other contract situations that need resolving as well. Full-back Ola Aina, who proved a reliable figure last season, should also be rewarded with a new long-term deal. Meanwhile, negotiations are expected with Neco Williams, Callum Hudson-Odoi, and head coach Nuno Espírito Santo himself—all of whom are entering the final 12 months of their contracts. Stability and continuity are key, particularly when European football is in the mix, and Forest must act decisively to secure their core personnel.
Balancing the Squad: Incomings and Outgoings
Forest are also expected to make some key decisions about their squad depth. The aim is to have two competitive XIs that can rotate effectively between domestic and European duties. With the club’s ambitions growing, squad depth will be critical—not only for covering injuries but also for maintaining performance levels across four competitions.
While last summer saw Forest begin the process of trimming the squad, there remains some work to do. Several players who have struggled for game time or failed to make an impact are likely to be moved on. Emmanuel Dennis, Lewis O’Brien, and Josh Bowler fall into that category. None are expected to play a part in Forest’s future plans, and permanent departures would benefit all parties.
Additionally, there are players whose futures remain uncertain. Left-back Omar Richards, for instance, could be evaluated during pre-season after spending time out on loan. Similarly, Tyler Bindon, Marko Stamenic, and David Carmo—all of whom were also loaned out—may get a final audition in pre-season camps. Nuno will need to assess whether they have a role to play in 2025/26 or whether it’s time for a clean break.
An Exciting Summer Ahead
With momentum from a breakthrough season and the added attraction of European nights returning to the City Ground, there’s a tangible sense of excitement among Forest fans. However, expectations will be higher, and the pressure to deliver more consistent results will grow. For Nottingham Forest, the mission is clear: build on the strong foundations laid in 2024/25, strengthen wisely during the transfer window, and aim to establish themselves as regular contenders both domestically and in Europe.
The journey ahead will be demanding, but with the right blend of ambition, planning, and execution, Forest could be on the cusp of a new golden era.