Four pre-season winners as Nottingham Forest enter the Oliver Glasner era | OneFootball

Nottingham Forest open the 2026/27 Premier League at home to Leeds United, Oliver Glasner’s first competitive City Ground game since replacing Vitor Pereira last month.

Pre-season gave the Austrian time to assess his squad. Nottingham Post highlights four winners as Glasner aims to lift Forest and push for Europe.

James McAtee: Glasner recently suggested the former Manchester City midfielder was among pre-season’s winners. After an underwhelming first year, the 23-year-old looks refreshed and stronger, showing versatility and determination to move on. Signs suggest Glasner might be the coach to unlock him.

Igor Jesus: The Brazilian started pre-season brightly and, although the goals slowed, should retain belief. Adjusting to the Premier League is rarely straightforward. After arriving from Botafogo with little rest, he led the line during Chris Wood’s injury absence.

By his own account, 2025/26 was a valuable education he can draw on when it all starts again. He is probably best suited to a No.10 role, but while Forest seek reinforcements he may be used up front.

Xaver Schlager: Forest’s first summer signing settled quickly, helped by the Portugal camp and his past work with Glasner at Wolfsburg. He starred against Bayer Leverkusen and impressed in the Brest win, suggesting he is ready to start fast.

Arnaud Kalimuendo: A permanent return to Eintracht Frankfurt initially looked likely after his loan and option, but attempts to rework the fee have cooled, so he remains at the City Ground. His future is unclear, though he has advertised his qualities.

Source: Nottingham Post

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