Nottingham Forest is on the hunt for their third manager before November, capturing the current unrest at the City Ground. According to David Ornstein from The Athletic, the club has reached out to Roberto Mancini as a primary candidate to succeed Ange Postecoglou, who was let go after failing to secure a win in any of his eight Premier League matches.
Mancini’s Impressive History
Discussions have taken place with the 60-year-old Italian, who is known for leading Manchester City to FA Cup victory in 2011 and for securing their first Premier League title a year later. Given Forest’s precarious position above the relegation zone, Mancini’s extensive experience is particularly appealing. He also guided Italy to victory in Euro 2020, although his later tenure saw the national team miss out on the 2022 World Cup.
The appeal is clear. Forest seeks not just survival but a strategy and authoritative presence. An Italian source noted, “Mancini remains eager to return to club football,” hinting that the feeling could be mutual.
Multiple Candidates, Heightened Urgency
Sean Dyche has also engaged in discussions, yet “nothing has been finalized.” Experience seems to be the only essential criterion. Forest previously parted ways with Nuno Espirito Santo in September after a seventh-place finish and European qualification last season, but that success has quickly faded.
Postecoglou’s tenure deteriorated amid hostility, marked by chants of “sacked in the morning,” and a decisive 3-0 loss at home to Chelsea sealed his fate.
Europe: A Challenge or an Opportunity?
Forest’s next match is against Porto in the Europa League, where they are also yet to earn a victory. Currently sitting in 18th place in the league with only one win from their first eight games, any new manager will step into a situation laden with both fatigue and high expectations. Whether Europe becomes a distraction or a chance for resurgence depends entirely on who takes over.
What Mancini Would Contribute
Beyond his tactical know-how, Mancini possesses a commanding presence. Former players describe him as both demanding and inspiring. One could easily envision him establishing early expectations, possibly declaring, “Effort is non-negotiable. Reputation holds no value if commitment is absent.”
Forest’s squad has talent yet lacks direction. Mancini’s experience in stabilizing tumultuous environments, whether at City or Inter, could be precisely what the ownership desires.
As a Forest supporter, this rumor resonates differently from the typical shortlists. Names like Sean Dyche may seem sensible and safe, but Mancini? That feels explosive, ambitious—a decision you might make at 2 AM on Football Manager.
There is, however, some uncertainty. Would he truly want to engage in a relegation battle after managing Italy and Saudi Arabia? Or might he see it as an opportunity to reestablish his credentials in Europe? If he commits sincerely, the lift could be monumental. Just imagine him on the sidelines in a sharp suit against Porto, issuing orders, and suddenly, we would appear as a credible footballing institution.
The concern remains whether this chase will lead to concrete action or if it will end up as just another headline devoid of substance. With two managers already dismissed and the calendar still in October, stability appears to be a word long forgotten at Forest.
Yet, if the owners can truly pull this off, confidence could soar overnight. No more stopgap solutions—just a seasoned coach with accolades, demanding a wake-up call for this squad. If there was ever a moment for a bold gamble, it is now.