Nuno Espirito Santo was appointed head coach of Nottingham Forest in December 2023.
Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo has described his side’s remaining five Premier League fixtures as the “most significant of our careers.”
Currently occupying sixth place, Forest have emerged as one of the season’s surprise successes. They have a chance to re-enter the Champions League qualification positions if they can at least draw against Brentford in their game in hand at the City Ground on Thursday.
The club, twice winners of the European Cup, last featured in the tournament during the 1980-81 campaign.
Though Forest’s FA Cup run ended in the semi-finals at the hands of Manchester City on Sunday, a perfect end to their league campaign would secure their place in Europe’s top club competition once again.
“Every match is immensely important for many teams battling in this competition. We have an additional fixture, so let’s aim for a top performance,” Nuno said.
“We return to the City Ground with the support of our fans, which is enormously beneficial.
“Our belief has remained constant, irrespective of circumstances. Throughout this challenging campaign, we have faced both highs and lows and demonstrated resilience. Once more, it’s up to us to respond.
“Each of these fixtures stands as the most important of our professional lives, and this mindset drives us.
“Our sole focus now is Brentford; that is the only match demanding our attention as we prepare to compete.
“Everything is within our control, which provides us a significant advantage.”
Full-back Neco Williams and captain Ryan Yates will both be available for the Brentford encounter, having served their suspensions at Wembley. Meanwhile, Nuno is closely monitoring defender Ola Aina’s recovery.
“Many members of the squad need to be evaluated following an intense match in which several players finished with cramp. We will make a final assessment,” the Portuguese coach explained.
Speaking about Aina, he continued: “With one more day before the game, we are assessing everyone and will make our decisions.
“Those who have been unavailable are crucial to us. We have highlighted this repeatedly.
“Ola’s absence has been particularly felt due to the defensive stability and familiar routines he provides.
“Consistent selection in defence is vital, and we haven’t often had that. We will continue to assess his condition and determine when he can rejoin the squad.”