Nottingham Forest in talks with Oliver Glasner after Vitor Pereira’s surprise exit
Pereira’s Departure and Reaction
Vitor Pereira has confirmed his departure as head coach of Nottingham Forest, expressing surprise at the decision. The Portuguese manager stated that his exit came as a “complete surprise and without any warning.” Despite this, he conveyed respect for the club’s right to make decisions it believes are best for its future. Pereira signed an 18-month contract at the City Ground in February and had guided the team to Premier League survival and a spot in the Europa League semi-final.
In a statement, Pereira thanked everyone connected with the club, acknowledging the memorable end to the season. He highlighted securing the club’s Premier League status and reaching the Europa League semi-finals as key achievements during his tenure. He also expressed pride in the growth of the players and their passion for the club. He leaves with no bitterness, only respect, gratitude, and fond memories, wishing the club future success.
The club hierarchy, including owner Evangelos Marinakis, reportedly felt disappointment following the team’s exit from the Europa League semi-final against Aston Villa. This disappointment is understood to have prompted another change in management, leading to Pereira’s unexpected departure.
Glasner Emerges as Successor
Following Pereira’s exit, Nottingham Forest are in discussions with Oliver Glasner to take over as head coach. The Austrian manager is currently a free agent after his contract with Crystal Palace officially ended. Glasner is considered a top candidate for the role and is high on Forest’s list of potential replacements.
Glasner’s potential move to the City Ground could stir controversy, given previous tensions between Forest and Crystal Palace. The two clubs indirectly competed for a spot in last season’s Europa League. UEFA ultimately ruled that Forest would enter the competition, while Palace was excluded due to multi-club ownership rules involving their co-owner John Textor and Lyon.
This decision led to a notable incident where Palace fans displayed a banner concerning Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis during a 1-1 Premier League draw at Selhurst Park on August 24. Crystal Palace subsequently faced a misconduct charge from the Football Association regarding the banner.
Despite being demoted to the Conference League, Glasner led Crystal Palace to European success, securing a 1-0 final victory over Rayo Vallecano in May. This triumph means Crystal Palace will participate in the Europa League next season, while Nottingham Forest will not have European football.
A History of Managerial Changes
Glasner’s arrival would mark another change in management for Nottingham Forest, which has seen a significant turnover of head coaches. He would become the eleventh permanent manager since Evangelos Marinakis acquired the club in May 2017. The club has experienced a revolving door of managers, particularly in the past year.
Since Nuno Espirito Santo’s dismissal last September, the club has had several managers. Ange Postecoglou was in charge for just 39 days before being sacked, followed by Sean Dyche, and then Vitor Pereira. Despite this constant upheaval, Marinakis remains ambitious and has invested substantially in the squad, helping Forest establish itself in the top flight since its promotion.
Glasner previously left Crystal Palace at the end of last season as their most successful manager in history. During his two-year spell, he secured the UEFA Conference League, the FA Cup, and the Community Shield. He reportedly turned down offers to extend his stay at Palace. Before discussions with Forest, Glasner was also considered by clubs such as Manchester United and Chelsea.
With Glasner expected to take charge, he will be tasked with quickly implementing his tactical vision and unifying a squad that has faced considerable managerial instability. The club’s ownership is anticipated to provide strong backing, with expectations for domestic success and another push for European qualification in the upcoming Premier League campaign.
Vitor Pereira’s contract at the City Ground was initially for 18 months, beginning in February.
Read Also
Source: skysports.com
Isla Hartley is a Sports Reporter at NewsUK. She covered the British summer of sport from Wimbledon to the Test grounds. She focuses on tennis, cricket and athletics and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. She holds a degree in Sports Studies from the University of Stirling and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Glasgow, she runs half-marathons and follows Scottish athletics. “The overlooked athlete usually has the better story.”
