Jose Mourinho has once again been linked with a dramatic return to the Premier League, with Nottingham Forest emerging as a surprise possible destination.
Current manager Nuno Espirito Santo’s future at the City Ground looks increasingly uncertain despite last weekend’s 3-1 win over Brentford. Reports suggest a breakdown in his relationship with the club’s hierarchy, raising questions over his position.
Mourinho, now managing Turkish giants Fenerbahce, has been named as a potential replacement if owner Evangelos Marinakis decides to make a change. The Portuguese tactician, who has won 26 major trophies across Europe, has long been rumoured to be eyeing a return to English football and Forest could be the team to offer him that opportunity, according to The Sun.
Former Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou is also reportedly under consideration. Although his time in North London was mixed, he did guide Spurs to Europa League glory before their disastrous 17th-place Premier League finish.
While Forest have tried to downplay talk of a managerial change, Nuno himself admitted there were serious strains behind the scenes. A clash with newly-appointed global head of football, Edu, is said to be at the heart of the tension.
Speaking to the media, Nuno acknowledged: “There is no smoke without fire. I always had a good relationship with the owner, but this season things have changed. It’s not the same as before with less trust, less openness. My job is to prepare the team, but I also say what I think. Naturally, I am worried.”
According to TEAMtalk, Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has also been shortlisted. Fresh from another Scottish Premiership title, Rodgers’ previous Premier League experience with Liverpool and Leicester City makes him a strong contender should Forest decide to act.
For now, Nuno remains in charge and is expected to lead Forest against Crystal Palace on Sunday. However, with his own words admitting unease and the club considering big-name alternatives, uncertainty over his future looms large.
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