Oliver Glasner has been appointed as the new head coach for Nottingham Forest, signing a three-year contract. His arrival follows a period at Crystal Palace and marks him as Forest’s fifth head coach in less than a year. Glasner expressed his ambition to bring back the “sweet honey” of European football to the club, following a season where they reached the Europa League semi-finals and avoided relegation.
Glasner revealed that discussions with owner Evangelos Marinakis, which took place over a seafood meal in Athens, were instrumental in his decision to join the club. He noted that Marinakis’s ambition might even surpass his own, suggesting a challenging and productive partnership. Glasner met the Forest squad on his first day and conveyed his enthusiasm for the club’s potential for growth.
The club is reportedly working to secure Tottenham midfielder Lucas Bergvall, who could become their club-record signing. This move comes after the sale of Elliot Anderson. Glasner is hopeful that at least two new signings will join the team for an upcoming training camp in Portugal, with midfielder Xaver Schlager, formerly of RB Leipzig, reportedly close to joining on a free transfer.
Forest’s decision to part ways with Vítor Pereira was influenced by the opportunity to appoint Glasner, who was available after leaving Selhurst Park. Glasner acknowledged the “very hard-working” efforts of Forest’s hierarchy in securing his appointment. The manager, who won the Conference League at Palace, believes he can achieve success at the City Ground, though he stressed that results would not be immediate.
Glasner explained that implementing new habits and strategies typically takes “three to six months to see it for the first time.” He emphasized that he is “no magician” and that success requires hard work and collective effort rather than instant solutions. He aims for the team to progressively move closer to European qualification spots.
Reflecting on Forest’s previous season, Glasner noted that the team had experienced the “sweet honey” of European football, but this year it was “just butter – no honey – on the toast.” He hopes for a “sweeter” outcome next year, indicating that he would not have joined if he did not perceive potential for improvement.
During his discussions with Marinakis, Glasner felt he had encountered someone potentially more ambitious than himself, suggesting a dynamic relationship. He cautioned against premature talk of silverware, stating that it is illogical to discuss the “end product when you don’t know the ingredients.” He likened the current phase to finding the right ingredients to create a successful outcome.
Glasner also used analogies during his unveiling, comparing the desire for stability in football to marriage, noting that while everyone hopes for a long-lasting union, reality often differs. He stressed that while clubs desire long-term managers and players, this is not always feasible in the real world. He and the owner are convinced that stability and consistency form the foundation for success, and they view his appointment as a starting point.
The club’s rich history as two-time European champions was a factor in enticing Glasner, but he stressed the importance of looking forward. He sees significant potential and ambition within the club. He acknowledged that he cannot achieve success alone, stating, “If I’m alone, I have no chance.” However, he believes that collective effort and working towards a common goal can lead to success and fulfil expectations for those associated with the club.
Glasner dismissed concerns that joining Forest, who took Palace’s place in the Europa League last season after Palace’s expulsion by Uefa, might tarnish his legacy at his former club. He expressed gratitude for his time at Palace, stating he gave “100% every single day” and created lasting memories. He remains in contact with many former players, including texting Marc Guéhi on his birthday.
Looking Ahead to the New Season
Glasner’s appointment comes as Forest prepares for the new Premier League season. The team is scheduled to host Leeds United in their first game of the season. Last season, Forest navigated a significant battle to avoid relegation, ultimately finishing five points clear of the drop zone.
Glasner’s initial press conference as Forest boss included a warning about the club’s ambition for the upcoming season, despite his reluctance to discuss silverware immediately. He reiterated that building consistency is crucial for success. He also mentioned that when he joined Palace, he stated he was “not a magician,” a sentiment he repeated for his new role at Forest. He believes success will stem from hard work and mutual support among everyone involved.
Forest went through four different managers last season under Marinakis, highlighting the club’s challenges. Glasner’s focus is on establishing a stable environment, which he believes is essential for achieving long-term success at the club.
The new manager’s first day involved meeting the squad on Monday.
Read Also
Source: theguardian.com
As News-UK's Sports News Writer, Oscar Pennington reports on rugby union, golf and boxing for readers across the country. He built a reputation for sharp explainer pieces on regional sport. He holds a degree in Journalism from Nottingham Trent University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Oscar lives in Nottingham, where he follows the pro golf tour and amateur boxing. “Context is what turns a result into a story.”
