NafisaNottingham Forest endured a punishing 1-0 loss to Chelsea at the City Ground on the last day of the season.
Nuno Espirito Santo’s men ultimately missed out on the Champions League and Europa League, with the Europa Conference League now lying ahead.
Nevertheless, it’s still been an outstanding campaign for Nottingham Forest, who many tipped to be battling relegation once again.
Matz Sels has been a standout figure, claiming the Golden Glove accolade, as have players like Chris Wood, Anthony Elanga and others.
Despite that, Espirito Santo’s position remains uncertain amid rumours linking him to Claudio Ranieri’s potential replacement at Roma.
Reports suggest Roma have tabled a two-year deal for Espirito Santo, though there has been no official confirmation as of yet.
Questioned about his future following the Chelsea loss, the Forest manager was vague and far from reassuring.
Nuno Espirito Santo not reassuring when asked if he will stay at Nottingham Forest:
Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Espirito Santo was quizzed on whether he will remain at Nottingham Forest and his response didn’t inspire confidence.
“Look, this is not the moment to speak about me, not even think about me… to think about the club and the idea for next season,” the Forest boss said.
Nottingham Forest News understands Evangelos Marinakis wants Espirito Santo to commit to a new contract, so should he depart, it will likely be his decision rather than the club’s.
Perhaps the Portuguese manager simply wanted the spotlight to remain on the players’ success, even if it ended in frustration.
Talks with Marinakis are expected over the next few days, so we might get a firmer update once emotions have settled.
Espirito Santo admitted that Forest simply weren’t strong enough to reach the Champions League:
Espirito Santo reflected on the campaign and acknowledged that his squad gave their all, but it just wasn’t sufficient to secure Champions League qualification.
“I have to thank the players for their commitment, when you give everything you have, you cannot say anything about it,” the Forest boss explained.
“We started well and controlled the game. Second half, we rushed and the anxiety didn’t help us. It was not enough.
“They were good chances for us. It was there, we didn’t achieve it. It’s hard when it was in your hands in the end and it doesn’t go your way.
Now, focus shifts to what will be a crucial summer for the club, as they look to strengthen the squad for European competition and the demands that come with it.
Forest are already targeting the likes of James McAtee and Liam Delap, so there’s plenty of anticipation heading into the next few months.
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