Breaking: Nottingham Forest Appoints Steve Cooper as New Head Coach Following Nuno Espírito Santo’s Departure………
In a significant managerial shake-up, Nottingham Forest has officially appointed Steve Cooper as their new head coach following the departure of Nuno Espírito Santo. The announcement was made early Wednesday morning, with the club confirming Cooper’s return to the City Ground on a two-year deal, marking a new chapter in Forest’s ongoing quest for stability in the Premier League.
Cooper, 44, returns to the dugout after previously leading Forest to Premier League promotion in the 2021–22 season. His earlier tenure was widely celebrated by fans and critics alike, with Cooper credited for revitalizing a struggling side and fostering a strong team ethos. His departure in late 2023 shocked many, but the recent decision by the club’s hierarchy to part ways with Nuno Espírito Santo has paved the way for Cooper’s unexpected comeback.
Nuno, who replaced Cooper in December 2023, leaves the club after just seven months in charge. Despite a promising start, results faltered in the latter stages of the 2024–25 campaign, with Forest narrowly avoiding relegation. A poor run of form in pre-season and disagreements over transfer strategy are believed to have contributed to the club’s decision to move on.
In a statement released by Nottingham Forest, owner Evangelos Marinakis thanked Nuno for his service:
> “We are grateful to Nuno for stepping in during a difficult time last season. However, after careful consideration, we believe a change in leadership is necessary to move the club forward.”
Steve Cooper, speaking at his unveiling press conference, expressed both gratitude and excitement about his return:
> “This club means a great deal to me. I never lost my connection with Forest or its supporters. I return with a renewed sense of purpose and a strong belief that we can achieve great things together. My focus now is to stabilize the team, improve performances, and build a foundation for long-term success.”
Cooper’s immediate priorities will include reinforcing the squad during the summer transfer window, addressing defensive frailties, and fostering consistency in the team’s performances. With just three weeks until the new Premier League season kicks off, Cooper has little time to implement his vision but has already begun overseeing training sessions.
Reactions from the Forest faithful have been largely positive. Supporters have taken to social media to express their joy, with many hailing Cooper as “the right man to lead us again.” Former Forest players have also weighed in, praising the club’s decision to restore a manager who understands the club’s ethos and expectations.
Sky Spot pundit and former Premier League striker Chris Sutton commented:
> “Cooper’s return could be a masterstroke. He knows the club, the fans love him, and he’s proven he can deliver under pressure. It’s now about whether he can take Forest to the next level and keep them comfortably in the top flight.”
With pre-season friendlies on the horizon and transfer speculation heating up, all eyes will be on Cooper as he begins his second spell in charge of Nottingham Forest—this time with survival and progression firmly in his sights
