The air was thick with more than just pre-match anticipation. Nuno Espírito Santo, the man in charge at Nottingham Forest, spoke candidly. He faced the media ahead of Sunday’s 2 PM clash with Crystal Palace. What emerged was a stark admission: his bond with club owner Evangelos Marinakis has shifted dramatically. This change has happened quickly since the new season began.
For a long time, their working relationship was solid. “I always had a very good relationship with the club owner,” Nuno explained. “Last season, we were very close. We talked daily.” But those days seem to be gone. The coach made it clear things are different now. “This season, things haven’t gone well,” he stated, his worry evident.
Nuno believes open talks are always important. He voiced his deep concern for his team. He is also thinking about the entire season ahead. “Our relationship changed,” he admitted. “We are no longer as close.” This isn’t just a small bump in the road; it’s a significant divide.
“It’s something that is not good,” Nuno continued. He feels everyone at the club should pull together. Yet, he knows that’s not the current situation. He couldn’t pinpoint why their connection had frayed. “I can’t explain why,” he said, “but it’s not the same.” He revealed he had brought up this very issue before, about a week or two ago. His tone showed deep concern throughout his statements.
These comments surfaced as whispers grew louder about Nuno’s future. The 51-year-old coach had previously shared his plans for the Forest squad. He had to admit those plans “didn’t work out.” Yet, the team itself has started the Premier League season strong. They secured a 3-1 victory against Brentford at home. It’s a strange situation when results are good, but the internal atmosphere is strained.