Ange Postecoglou is walking a tightrope at Nottingham Forest, with his position as head coach reportedly hanging in the balance ahead of a decisive Premier League fixture against Chelsea. Despite a turbulent start to his tenure, the Australian tactician has survived the international break—but his fate may soon be sealed if results and fan sentiment don’t improve quickly.
Postecoglou Under Pressure After Poor Start
Since taking over from Nuno Espírito Santo last month, Postecoglou has struggled to steady the ship at the City Ground. Forest have failed to secure a single win in his seven games in charge, suffering five defeats and managing just two draws across all competitions. The tension hit a boiling point after a disappointing 3-1 loss to FC Midtjylland in the Europa League, where frustrated supporters openly jeered the manager and chanted calls for his dismissal.
Despite speculation that Evangelos Marinakis, the club’s owner, might act during the international break following a Premier League defeat to Newcastle, Postecoglou has been given a temporary reprieve. But his margin for error is now razor-thin.
Crunch Time: Chelsea Clash Could Decide Fate
According to a BBC Sport report, Postecoglou could be given until Thursday’s Europa League showdown against Porto—but only if Forest deliver a positive result against Chelsea this Saturday. The lunchtime kick-off is seen as pivotal, with Marinakis closely monitoring both the outcome and the reaction from fans in the stands.
The Athletic adds that Marinakis has been actively assessing the atmosphere within the club—consulting his inner circle to gauge the locker room’s mood and the supporters’ sentiment toward the manager.
Marinakis Eyes Premier League-Proven Alternatives
While no decision has been made, Marinakis is known for having contingency plans in place. Sources suggest that if Postecoglou is dismissed, the Forest owner would likely seek a coach with Premier League experience who can hit the ground running. Sean Dyche has reportedly emerged as a candidate, reinforcing the idea that Marinakis values familiarity with the top-flight’s demands during a turbulent period.
“Having options does not always mean Marinakis will utilise them,” The Athletic reports, “but he is known for being decisive once he feels a change is necessary.”
Dressing Room in Limbo Amid Managerial Uncertainty
Inside the Forest camp, uncertainty is palpable. While players were said to be close to Nuno Espírito Santo and saddened by his departure, there is no widespread resentment toward Postecoglou. However, according to sources, the squad remains unsure about what the immediate future holds.
Despite the distractions, players are said to be focused on the two upcoming high-stakes matches, fully aware that the next few days could define both their European campaign and their manager’s tenure.
