Vitor Pereira has confirmed his departure as head coach of Nottingham Forest, stating the decision came as a “complete surprise.” Following his exit, former Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner is reportedly in discussions to take over the role. Pereira had signed an 18-month contract with Forest in February and guided the club to secure its Premier League status and reach the Europa League semi-final.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Pereira expressed his disappointment and sadness regarding the decision. He acknowledged the club’s right to make choices it deems best for its future, while also conveying pride in the achievements during his tenure. He thanked everyone connected with the club, including staff, players, and supporters, for their passion and unwavering support.
Managerial change at the City Ground
The departure of Vitor Pereira marks another managerial change at Nottingham Forest. Forest‘s hierarchy was reportedly disappointed by the team’s exit from the Europa League semi-final against Aston Villa, which prompted the decision to seek a new manager. Glasner is now expected to become the eleventh permanent manager since Evangelos Marinakis acquired the club in May 2017.
The club has seen a significant turnover of head coaches in recent times. Since Nuno Espirito Santo was dismissed last September, Forest has employed several managers, including Ange Postecoglou, who was sacked after 39 days, followed by Sean Dyche and then Pereira. Despite this instability, Marinakis remains ambitious and has invested substantially in the squad, helping Forest establish itself in the top flight since its promotion.
Oliver Glasner, an Austrian, is currently a free agent after his contract with Crystal Palace officially expired. He was previously linked with several prominent positions in European football. During his time at Crystal Palace, Glasner achieved notable success.
Previous tensions and future prospects
Glasner‘s potential move to the City Ground could be viewed with interest by Crystal Palace given past interactions between the two clubs. Last season, Forest and Palace were indirectly vying for a spot in the Europa League. UEFA ultimately ruled that Forest would enter the competition, while Palace was excluded due to multi-club ownership rules involving their co-owner John Textor‘s controlling interest in Lyon. This decision led to a banner being displayed by Palace fans about Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis during a 1-1 Premier League draw at Selhurst Park on August 24, which resulted in Palace being charged with misconduct by the Football Association.
Despite being demoted to the Conference League, Glasner led Crystal Palace to European success. The victory means Crystal Palace will participate in the Europa League next season, while Nottingham Forest will not have European football. Glasner is now tasked with quickly implementing his tactical vision and unifying a squad that has experienced considerable managerial changes.
With strong backing from the ownership, Glasner is expected to aim for domestic success and another European qualification, seeking to replicate his previous triumphs at his new club. Vitor Pereira‘s full statement expressed gratitude and pride in his time at Nottingham Forest, concluding with well wishes for the club’s future success.
Source: skysports.com