Nottingham Forest’s story in the Premier League has been one of transformation, rebirth, and ambition since their promotion back to England’s top flight in 2022. After spending 23 years away from the Premier League, the club has experienced a whirlwind of new players, management changes, and a fervent desire to return to their former glory days of the 1970s and 1980s, when they were kings of English football, lifting European Cups in 1979 and 1980.
As Forest moves further into their new chapter, the club has set its sights on re-establishing itself as a consistent force in the Premier League. The 2024-2025 season has been earmarked for bold changes: exciting transfers, tactical overhauls, and a strategic ambition to move the club into a more competitive position. Forest fans are excited about what’s to come, and this article takes a deep dive into the club’s recent transfer activity and tactical shifts as they navigate a crucial period in their journey.
The Summer of Change: Forest’s Transfer Surge
Nottingham Forest’s 2023-2024 season was a campaign of progress but also one filled with challenges. While the club managed to stay above the relegation zone, their inconsistent form highlighted the need for reinforcements, particularly in key areas of the pitch. The club’s owners, Evangelos Marinakis and his family, have shown a strong commitment to spending in the transfer market to build a squad capable of pushing up the table and becoming a more stable Premier League team. Their business in the summer of 2024 was testament to this ambition.
Key Incoming Transfers
- Nico Williams (RB, Athletic Bilbao)
A player who has long been linked with a move to the Premier League, Nico Williams is one of Forest’s standout signings of the summer. The Spanish right-back offers pace, energy, and attacking flair, qualities that can make a significant difference in Forest’s build-up play. His ability to join the attack and provide width will complement Forest’s high-tempo game, adding dynamism to the right flank.
- Milos Kerkez (LB, AZ Alkmaar)
The acquisition of Milos Kerkez from AZ Alkmaar was a shrewd move, strengthening Forest’s defense with a player renowned for his versatility. The Hungarian left-back is not only solid defensively but also has excellent technical ability and an eye for attacking runs. His signing signals Forest’s intent to dominate both sides of the pitch, providing balance and depth to the defense while contributing to offensive build-up.
- Andreas Skov Olsen (RW, Club Brugge)
The signing of Danish winger Andreas Skov Olsen adds another layer of creativity to Forest’s attack. Olsen is known for his dribbling skills, direct running, and ability to deliver dangerous crosses into the box. The 24-year-old’s addition provides Forest with a threat on the right wing, increasing competition for places and giving the team a tactical advantage against teams that play with narrow formations.
- Felix Nmecha (CM, VfL Wolfsburg)
With the departure of several central midfielders, Nottingham Forest were quick to move for Felix Nmecha, a box-to-box midfielder with a great range of passing and an eye for goal. His ability to break up opposition attacks while contributing creatively to Forest’s forward play makes him a versatile option for Steve Cooper. Nmecha’s experience in the Bundesliga will allow him to adapt quickly to the Premier League’s intensity.
- Olivier Giroud (CF, AC Milan)
Perhaps the most surprising yet intriguing signing was Olivier Giroud’s move from AC Milan. The French striker, now in his late 30s, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to Forest. Although he may not possess the blistering pace of youth, Giroud’s aerial ability, hold-up play, and knack for scoring important goals make him an excellent option for a team looking to add variety to their forward line.
These additions reflect the club’s strategy to sign both young, exciting talent and seasoned professionals who can provide stability and leadership. Forest has found a balance between youth and experience, building a squad that is capable of challenging for mid-table respectability and perhaps even higher ambitions in the coming seasons.
Key Outgoings
Not all changes have been positive in terms of departures. Forest saw a number of players leave the club, with some seeking opportunities elsewhere for more consistent playing time.
- Morgan Gibbs-White (Moved to Juventus)
One of the most significant departures came in the form of Morgan Gibbs-White, who made a high-profile move to Juventus. The English midfielder had been pivotal in Forest’s attack, but his departure has opened up space for other creative players to shine. While Forest will miss his technical skill, they have taken proactive steps to replace him with players who can offer a similar level of creativity.
- Renan Lodi (Returned to Atlético Madrid)
Renan Lodi, who had been a standout performer during his loan spell from Atlético Madrid, returned to his parent club in the summer. His absence from the left-back position was keenly felt, and Forest have been quick to replace him with Milos Kerkez, ensuring that their defense remains solid while providing an additional attacking outlet down the left flank.
Tactical Overhaul: Steve Cooper’s Vision
While transfers are crucial to success, perhaps even more important is the tactical evolution of Nottingham Forest under manager Steve Cooper. The Welshman has proven his worth in the Premier League since taking charge in 2021, and his tactical decisions are key to the club’s future success.
1. High-Pressing Game
Forest has made significant strides in implementing a high-pressing system, something that was lacking in previous seasons. Cooper has favored a more aggressive, pressing style of play that focuses on winning the ball high up the pitch and quickly transitioning to attack. This strategy has proven effective, especially when Forest’s attackers work together to press from the front, forcing mistakes from opposition defenses. With the addition of players like Skov Olsen and Williams, who are known for their work rate and defensive contribution, Forest now has the tools to implement a high-pressing system effectively.
2. Fluid Attack and Possession Play
Another area where Forest has seen growth is in their attacking play. The club has focused heavily on improving their possession game, building attacks from the back and utilizing the pace of their wingers to stretch opposition defenses. The inclusion of Giroud offers a target man who can hold the ball up, while players like Taiwo Awoniyi and Brennan Johnson can make darting runs behind the defensive lines. Forest’s offense is becoming more multifaceted, allowing them to adapt to different styles of opposition.
3. Flexible Formation
Cooper’s tactical flexibility has been an essential part of his success at Forest. He’s not wedded to a single formation but instead adapts depending on the opposition and the players available. Whether it’s a 4-3-3 with a solid midfield base or a 3-4-3 to overload the wings, Forest has demonstrated versatility in its tactical setup. The club’s new signings, especially in the full-back and wide positions, will allow Cooper to experiment with different formations, making the team harder to predict for opponents.
4. Youth Development and Integration
One of the hallmarks of Steve Cooper’s management is his ability to nurture young talent. The likes of Willy Boly, Brennan Johnson, and Taiwo Awoniyi have flourished under his leadership, and Forest’s youth setup remains a crucial part of the club’s philosophy. With the arrival of new players, there is an emphasis on integrating youth into the first-team squad, making sure that the next generation of talent is ready to step up when needed.
The Road Ahead: Ambitious Goals and Key Challenges
With the summer signings, tactical refinements, and managerial continuity under Steve Cooper, Nottingham Forest’s ambitions for the 2024-2025 season are clear: challenge for a top-half finish, solidify their place in the Premier League, and, over time, aim for European qualification. The club’s progress over the next few seasons will depend on the cohesion of the new squad and their ability to maintain consistency across a long and grueling league campaign.
However, challenges remain. The Premier League is notorious for its competitiveness, and clubs such as Leicester City, Southampton, and Leeds United have shown how difficult it can be to survive even when heavily invested in transfers. Forest’s ability to juggle their domestic and potentially European aspirations with injuries, squad rotation, and adapting to the demands of a top-flight season will determine their success.
One thing is clear: the new chapter at Nottingham Forest is one of genuine optimism and excitement. With an array of exciting transfers, a more tactical and disciplined approach under Steve Cooper, and an ambitious vision for the future, the Reds are poised to carve out their place among England’s elite once again. For the loyal Forest supporters, the upcoming years promise to be an exciting ride.
Amos Kefas