Tensions are running high at Nottingham Forest as head coach Nuno Espírito Santo’s future hangs in the balance. Reports suggest the club is already exploring alternatives, with Fulham boss Marco Silva emerging as the top target. Owner Evangelos Marinakis is said to be a keen admirer of Silva’s managerial style, adding fuel to the speculation of a possible managerial shake-up at the City Ground.
Forest’s Managerial Uncertainty Grows
Despite leading Nottingham Forest to European competition, Nuno’s position has come under scrutiny following a very public disagreement with Marinakis. The incident, which saw the club’s owner storm onto the pitch last season, left many questioning whether Nuno would remain at the helm. The tension reportedly reached a boiling point ahead of Forest’s recent match against Crystal Palace, casting further doubt over the Portuguese manager’s long-term role.
Marco Silva Touted as Prime Candidate
According to Football Insider, Nottingham Forest are seriously considering Fulham’s Marco Silva as a replacement. Marinakis is believed to be particularly drawn to Silva’s Premier League experience and ability to maximize squad potential. The Forest hierarchy reportedly views him as someone capable of steering the team toward both domestic and European success.
Silva’s Premier League Pedigree and Loyalty to Fulham
Silva has been with Fulham since 2021 and led the Cottagers back to the Premier League just a year later. His commitment to the club was evident when he turned down a lucrative £40 million, two-year deal from Saudi side Al-Ahli in 2023. Additionally, Silva is said to have rejected advances from Tottenham Hotspur earlier this summer, showing a clear preference to stay in the English top flight—at least under the right circumstances.
Transfer Frustrations May Open Door for Forest
However, Silva’s discontent with Fulham’s summer transfer activity could play into Forest’s hands. Fulham have spent a meager £400,000 during the current window, signing only two players—one of whom was a free agent. Silva has not shied away from expressing his dissatisfaction publicly, calling the club’s lack of movement “not normal” and warning of significant problems if reinforcements aren’t brought in before the window closes.
“We are light,” Silva told Sky Sports. “It is not ideal. We are completely late. It is not enough time, but we put ourselves in this position and we need to find the solution.”
Nuno Unwilling to Step Aside
While Forest may be making plans behind the scenes, removing Nuno won’t be straightforward. The Portuguese coach has reportedly made it clear he will not resign, meaning Forest would need to negotiate a payout to terminate the remaining three years of his recently signed contract. Nuno is set for crucial meetings with Marinakis and sporting director Edu this week, which could determine his fate.
What’s Next for Forest?
With the Europa League campaign on the horizon and expectations high, Nottingham Forest’s board appears determined to act decisively. If relations between Nuno and the club’s leadership cannot be repaired, the door may open for Silva—assuming he’s willing to walk away from Fulham under the current conditions.
