Nottingham Forest’s 2024-25 Premier League campaign will be remembered as a turning point in the club’s modern history. After years of battling relegation and uncertainty, Forest have not only secured their top-flight status but also clinched a coveted place in European competition for the first time in three decades. Their seventh-place finish, confirmed on the final day of the season, has sparked excitement among fans and pundits alike, and set the stage for a new era at the City Ground.
A Season of Transformation
Forest’s rise up the Premier League table has been nothing short of remarkable. Under the guidance of Nuno Espirito Santo, the team found a new sense of belief and tactical discipline. For much of the season, Forest flirted with the top five, even holding third place for a dozen consecutive matches. Ultimately, they finished seventh with 65 points, their highest tally since the 1994-95 season.
This achievement is even more impressive considering the club’s struggles in recent years. Last season, Forest narrowly avoided relegation, finishing with just 32 points. To more than double their points total in a single campaign is unprecedented in Premier League history and highlights the impact of shrewd recruitment, improved squad cohesion, and Nuno’s steady leadership.
Key Results and Defining Moments
Several results defined Forest’s season and showcased their progress. The club’s first win at Anfield since 1969, a 1-0 victory over Liverpool, was a statement of intent and signalled a shift in mentality. Memorable wins over Manchester City, Manchester United, and Tottenham Hotspur further underlined Forest’s ability to compete with the league’s elite.
Perhaps the most dramatic moment came in February, when Forest bounced back from a heavy defeat at Bournemouth to thrash Brighton 7-0 at the City Ground. Chris Wood’s hat-trick and a dominant team performance became a symbol of their resilience and attacking potential.
The Final Push and European Qualification
As the season entered its final weeks, Forest found themselves in a fierce battle for European places. A crucial 2-1 away win at West Ham kept their hopes of Champions League qualification alive, with Morgan Gibbs-White and Nikola Milenkovic providing the goals. Despite a late-season wobble, including a home defeat to Brentford, Forest held their nerve and secured seventh place, earning a spot in the UEFA Conference League for the 2025-26 campaign.
This return to European competition is a major milestone for the club. Forest will enter the Conference League at the play-off stage in August, bringing continental football back to the City Ground for the first time since the days of Frank Clark.
Squad Strength and Playing Style
Forest’s success has been built on a solid defensive foundation and a willingness to play without the ball. The team averaged just 40.9% possession, the second-lowest in the league, but excelled in defensive duels and quick counter-attacks. Nuno’s tactical approach focused on compactness, discipline, and springing forward with pace through players like Callum Hudson-Odoi, Anthony Elanga, and Morgan Gibbs-White.
Chris Wood led the line with determination, while the midfield and defence worked tirelessly to frustrate opponents. Forest conceded just 46 goals, giving them one of the best defensive records outside the top four.
2025-26 Fixtures and Challenges
The upcoming season promises fresh challenges and opportunities. Forest will begin their Premier League campaign at home to Brentford, followed by matches against Crystal Palace and West Ham. Their fixture list features a relatively kind start, but a tough run-in with trips to Chelsea and Manchester United could test their progress.
The Conference League play-off draw in August will determine Forest’s first European opponents in thirty years. Balancing domestic and European commitments will require squad depth and careful management, especially with the added travel and fixture congestion.
Transfer Rumours and Financial Health
Success has inevitably drawn attention to Forest’s key players. Morgan Gibbs-White, the creative heartbeat of the team, has been linked with a move to Manchester City, but the club insists they are under no pressure to sell. Forest remain comfortably within Financial Fair Play limits, thanks to prudent management and increased revenues from their Premier League and European exploits.
The Manager’s Perspective
Nuno Espirito Santo has received widespread praise for his role in Forest’s transformation. After a difficult spell at Tottenham, he has rebuilt his reputation at the City Ground, guiding the club to its best finish in decades. Nuno emphasises the importance of belief, ambition, and togetherness, qualities that have been evident throughout the season.
Supporter Optimism and City Pride
The mood among Forest supporters is buoyant. The City Ground has witnessed some of its most memorable nights in a generation, and the return of European football has galvanised the fanbase. Local businesses and the wider Nottingham community are also set to benefit from increased matchday activity and continental visitors.
