New Nottingham Forest head coach Vitor Pereira holds confidence in his relationship with owner Evangelos Marinakis, believing this trust will help him navigate the challenging role at the City Ground.
Pereira has stepped in as Forest’s fourth manager this season, following the departures of Sean Dyche, Nuno Espirito Santo, and Ange Postecoglou, as Marinakis seeks to avert Premier League relegation.
The Portuguese coach previously collaborated with the passionate Greek businessman while leading Olympiacos to a league and cup double over a decade ago, a foundation Pereira feels will aid him in handling the current pressures.
“He’s ambitious and wants to win; he’s emotional, and I know him well,” Pereira stated during his introductory press conference on Tuesday.
“Our discussions revolved around our time at Olympiacos. I recall the energy and passion we cultivated together.”
“Greece has a fire similar to Turkey’s—people appreciate energy, and he encouraged me to be myself.”
“He valued our successful partnership, leading to a league and cup victory, and I believe we can recreate that dynamic here.”
“During mid-season, we built a strong rapport. He trusts my work, and I trust in his character, as passion is essential in football.”
“I am bringing my full commitment to Nottingham Forest, ready to invest my heart and soul into helping the club succeed together.”
“This pressure is what makes football exhilarating. It pushes us to perform better, and I thrive under it.”
Pereira’s appointment follows Dyche’s dismissal after the team’s lackluster goalless draw against Wolves, during which senior players were summoned by Marinakis for a debriefing.
Dyche had lost the confidence of significant portions of his squad, and Pereira has urged his players to embrace his vision.
“Accepting my vision is a crucial first step,” he emphasized. “A lack of belief in the manager’s philosophy creates significant challenges.”
“You also need to connect with my personality. If you believe in both the idea and the person, and are open to collaboration and hard work, we can achieve our goals together.”
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Pereira previously helped Wolves secure their Premier League status after taking over from Gary O’Neil in December 2024, leading them to a comfortable midtable finish, and he is determined to replicate that success with Forest.
He stated, “I prefer to focus on the present and the future. This season has been challenging for our players, given the constant shifts in management and methodology.”
“It’s a tough situation, but I accepted this role because I believe in the players’ quality, the club’s potential, and the president’s ambitions.”
“I am confident that we can accumulate points, achieve results, and display quality in our performances.”