The Athletic FC Tactics Podcast
How Forest have outsmarted the Premier League’s elite
Apr 3, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Michael Cox, a renowned football tactics writer, joins data analysts Mark Carey and Liam Tharme to delve into Nottingham Forest's remarkable rise from relegation fears to Champions League contenders under Nuno Espirito Santo. They analyze Forest's innovative strategies and tactical evolution, showcasing their defensive strengths and adaptability against elite teams. Key players like Chris Wood and Morgan Gibbs-White are highlighted for their dual impact on defense and attack, revealing how these tactics make them a challenging opponent in the league.
47:14
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Quick takeaways
- Nottingham Forest's tactical transformation under Nuno Espirito Santo has made them highly competitive, transitioning from a relegation-fighting team to a resilient contender in the league.
- Their successful counter-attacking strategy, highlighted by quick transitions and productive players like Alanga and Gibbs-White, emphasizes exploiting opponents' vulnerabilities despite low possession.
Deep dives
Nottingham Forest's Tactical Transformation
Nottingham Forest has experienced a significant tactical transformation under Nuno Espirito Santo, which has turned them into a formidable opponent in the Premier League. Once a team at risk of relegation, they now exhibit strong organizational skills and tactical flexibility. Their recent performance against Manchester United highlights this change, as they effectively sat deep, absorbed pressure, and utilized swift counter-attacks, notably through players like Alanga, who scored a stunning opening goal. This ability to adapt their formation during matches, such as shifting from a 4-2 to a five-defender setup, showcases their strategic depth and the managerial prowess of Nuno.
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