Nottingham Forest have sacked head coach Ange Postecoglou just 17 minutes after their 3-0 defeat to Chelsea at the City Ground — ending the Australian’s reign after just 39 days in charge, the shortest permanent managerial spell in Premier League history.
Forest confirmed the decision shortly after the full-time whistle, releasing a statement citing “a series of disappointing results and performances.” Postecoglou leaves with no wins in eight matches across all competitions — managing just two draws and six defeats.
With Forest slipping into the Premier League relegation zone, the club have begun talks with former Everton boss Sean Dyche and ex-Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini as leading candidates to replace him.
Record-Breaking Short Reign Ends in Frustration
Appointed on 9 September 2025, Postecoglou’s tenure lasted only 39 days, surpassing Les Reed’s 40-day stint at Charlton Athletic in 2006 for the shortest managerial reign in Premier League history.
Despite his reputation for attacking football, the former Tottenham and Celtic boss struggled to make an impact at the City Ground. Under his leadership, Forest collected just one point from five league games, slipping from mid-table to 18th place.
Fans’ frustration peaked as Reece James’ late goal sealed a 3-0 defeat to Chelsea, prompting boos around the stadium. Minutes later, Postecoglou was informed of his dismissal by senior club officials, not owner Evangelos Marinakis, who had left the stands midway through the match.
Dyche and Mancini in the Frame
BBC Sport understands that Forest have made initial contact with Sean Dyche, who has been out of work since leaving Everton in January. The 54-year-old, known for his defensive organization and Premier League experience, is viewed as a strong candidate to stabilize Forest’s season.
Another leading contender is Roberto Mancini, the former Manchester City boss who guided the club to their first Premier League title in 2012. Mancini, recently in charge of Saudi Arabia’s national team, is currently available and interested in a return to English football.
While Marco Silva of Fulham also has internal support, his significant release clause makes an approach unlikely. Crucially, both Dyche and Mancini are free agents — making them attractive, cost-effective options.
Postecoglou’s Downfall: A 39-Day Struggle
When Postecoglou took over, Forest were 10th in the Premier League and had European football on the horizon. The club’s hierarchy hoped his attacking philosophy — showcased at Tottenham and Celtic — would bring flair and consistency.
Instead, his side quickly lost shape and confidence. Forest were knocked out of the Carabao Cup after surrendering a 2-0 lead to Swansea, and Europa League losses to Midtjylland and Real Betis added pressure.
A defiant Postecoglou insisted after defeat to Newcastle that he “loved a fight,” but a 3-0 home loss to Chelsea ended any hopes of survival in the role.
“I apologised to the players because I couldn’t deliver what I came here to do,” Postecoglou told staff before leaving.
His backroom team — Nick Montgomery, Mile Jedinak, and Sergio Raimundo — are also expected to depart.
Reaction: Chaos and Confusion at the City Ground
BBC Radio 5 Live reporter Lee Blakeman described the chaotic scenes following the announcement:
“I came down from the stands and within seconds, the news broke that Postecoglou had been sacked. The atmosphere was stunned — media scrambling, players being called into meetings, and staff visibly shocked.”
Forest defender Ryan Yates told BBC Radio 5 Live:
“Everybody has to take responsibility. It’s unfair to blame one person. We have to regroup quickly — football changes fast.”
Owner Under Fire
Former England captain Alan Shearer criticised owner Evangelos Marinakis for his decision-making, saying:
“Ultimately, results weren’t good enough — that’s on Ange. But the owner must take responsibility too. You can’t go from a defensive coach like Nuno to someone who plays open, expansive football and expect instant results.”
Forest finished seventh under Nuno Espirito Santo last season, boasting one of the league’s best defences. Under Postecoglou, however, Forest conceded heavily while failing to score consistently — managing only four goals in five league games.
What Next for Nottingham Forest?
With just eight matches played this season, Nottingham Forest now face their third managerial change in two months. The club’s instability raises concerns over long-term planning and recruitment strategy.
Dyche’s Premier League experience could make him the frontrunner, but sources suggest Mancini’s pedigree and attacking style appeal to Marinakis, who remains determined to establish Forest as a European contender.
Whoever takes over inherits a talented yet fragile squad, low on confidence and unity after a turbulent start.
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