Nottingham Forest have appointed Austrian coach Oliver Glasner to replace Vítor Pereira. Glasner will bring a 3-4-2-1 system and aims to secure a new striker to replace ageing Chris Wood. The 34-year-old’s injury record and age have raised questions about his ability to lead the line for a full season.
New Manager and Tactics
Glasner’s arrival has already prompted a change in formation. The Austrian has introduced the 3-4-2-1 set-up that brought him success at Crystal Palace. Forest’s three high-quality centre-backs will form the foundation of Glasner’s masterplan, and early pre-season signs suggest the squad is adapting to the new system. The club’s last season finished 16th, and the average of Guardian writers’ tips places them 11th for 2026-27.
Striker Search
Forest are seeking a new striker. Chris Wood’s injury record and ageing body raise doubts about his ability to lead the line for a full season. Liam Delap, a 23-year-old from Chelsea, is of interest and could be an ideal candidate if Forest can “prise him away.” However, Delap will not come cheap.
Off-Field Developments
Owner Evangelos Marinakis has launched legal action against Crystal Palace after a fan produced a derogatory banner. Meanwhile, plans to expand the City Ground from 30,500 to 52,500 seats are awaiting planning approval from the local council, with construction likely to start next summer if approved. Ticket prices were a sticking point last season, especially in the Europa League, and Forest had to drop prices after poor sales. Season tickets were frozen to ease tensions.
Key Signing
The only signing that cost money this summer was Ousmane Diomande, who arrived for £34 million from Sporting. The 22-year-old Ivorian defender is highly regarded by Glasner and is expected to slot in straight away while developing for years to come.
Managerial Context
It was a surprise when Vítor Pereira was dismissed and replaced by Glasner. The Portuguese had steadied the ship, but Glasner is seen as an upgrade. He fell out with Palace over transfer dealings and will need a better relationship with the City Ground hierarchy.
Future Outlook
Forest finished 16th in the league and Opta’s expected points standings last season. With four permanent managers in one campaign, the club has struggled to maintain a positive expected goal difference. Glasner’s success will determine whether he can improve the team’s underlying performance and secure his place at the City Ground.
Player Development
James McAtee, who struggled to break into the team, remains at the club and could become a central midfield replacement after Forest failed to acquire Lucas Bergvall. A gifted player with the ball at his feet, McAtee needs to be more aggressive and disciplined off the ball.
World Cup Impact
Ola Aina, one of football’s more charismatic players, missed the World Cup after Nigeria failed to qualify. He spent time away from the pitch, painting with Fikayo Tomori, attending the French Open and Wimbledon, and visiting the British Grand Prix. He is expected to return reinvigorated for the new season.
