Nottingham Forest’s remarkable Premier League campaign under head coach Nuno Espirito Santo has seen them rise from relegation candidates to top-three contenders. However, their Champions League aspirations have faltered as they approach a crucial match against West Ham on Sunday. Despite a stellar season, BBC football presenter and Forest supporter Darren Fletcher has identified key reasons for the team’s recent struggles.
Darren Fletcher said: “I looked the other day and eight players have started at least 29 Premier League matches this season. They’ve had a long run in the FA Cup as well. But Forest didn’t do anything in January because they couldn’t find the players they wanted to get in. At the same time, Manchester City bought four in, Aston Villa bought Donyell Malen, Marcus Rashford, Marco Asensio. Forest didn’t do anything, they’ve tried to get through the season with what they’ve got. They can do it when their best 11 is functioning properly and everything’s fine, but fatigue and injuries are a factor at the back end of the season, and I think that’s what has really hurt them.”
Fletcher added: “Still, it’s the first time in 30 years they’re in Europe and people are talking about it being a disappointing end to the season – it’s a bizarre conundrum. Yes, if they don’t get to the Champions League, then they will now be disappointed. My view would be that they should see this as a long-term build, that they want to be around these positions season upon season. If you look at this from a farther distance, that might be a better way to build the side, build it a little bit more patiently than having to bring in loads of players for the Champions League next season. Either way, I think it has to be a win. The fact they’re going to play in Europe next season, and they’ve had the kind of year they’ve had, has to be a positive for them.”
Fletcher’s analysis highlights the challenges faced by Nottingham Forest as they navigated a demanding season with a limited squad. While other top clubs reinforced their teams during the January transfer window, Forest opted to rely on their existing lineup. This decision, coupled with the physical toll of a long FA Cup run, has led to fatigue and injuries affecting their performance in the latter stages of the season.
Despite the disappointment of potentially missing out on the Champions League, Fletcher emphasizes the importance of viewing this season as a stepping stone for long-term growth. With European competition on the horizon for the first time in three decades, Forest has the opportunity to build a sustainable future, focusing on consistent top-tier performance rather than immediate success.
As they prepare for a pivotal match against West Ham, Nottingham Forest’s journey this season serves as a testament to their progress and potential. While the immediate goal of Champions League qualification may be slipping away, the foundation laid this year could pave the way for sustained success in the future.
