Report: Forest aim for success with Postecoglou’s high-intensity approach | OneFootball

New Chapter for Forest Under Postecoglou

Nottingham Forest are entering a new chapter under Ange Postecoglou, following his remarkable journey from semi-professional football in Australia to the Premier League, via Greece, Japan and Scotland. Fresh from a Europa League triumph with Tottenham Hotspur, the Australian-born coach, who was born in Greece, brings both pedigree and ambition to the City Ground.

Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis praised Postecoglou at a Greek Super League awards ceremony, saying, “What I want to say about Ange is that he has spoken about Greece many times, he is proud to be Greek, and in the great success he had with Tottenham Hotspur by winning the Europa League, he spoke about Greece.”

Marinakis continued, “A man who not only does not hide his origin but is also proud of it. What he achieved, he did with a team that has not won any titles. It has had a very difficult time in recent years. In this huge success that the whole world saw, he promoted Greece. We must thank him especially for this, and we wish him well, although we are sure that he will do well, as he has the ability. Wherever he goes, the successes will come.”

The task now for Postecoglou is to translate that success to Forest, a club with rich history but a squad that has experienced peaks and troughs in recent years.

Photo: IMAGO

Footballing Approach and Tactical Questions

The first question for Forest supporters is tactical. Nuno Espirito Santo stabilised the club in the Premier League with defensive discipline and rapid counter-attacks. Even at their best last season, Forest were rarely prolific, finishing the 2024-25 season with 58 goals, the joint-fewest in the top half. Their defensive solidity allowed them to sit back, soak pressure, and break quickly through pacey wingers, leading to a seventh-place finish and Europa League qualification, Forest’s best in two decades.

Postecoglou’s Tottenham side presented almost a complete contrast. Spurs scored freely, matching fourth-placed Chelsea with 64 league goals, yet conceded 65, finishing 17th. Postecoglou’s principles are evident: expect high lines, goalkeeper-led build-up, and relentless pressing, even away from home. “It’s just who we are, mate,” is the mantra that has defined his coaching career.

In the Europa League, however, Postecoglou has shown pragmatism. During away trips to Eintracht Frankfurt and Bodo/Glimt, Spurs adopted a more defensive posture, relying on long balls and set pieces. While the Premier League saw them allow an average of 8.8 passes before pressing, in Frankfurt this rose to 18.3, suggesting Postecoglou can adapt when necessary. Whether he will show similar flexibility in the league with Forest remains to be seen.

Photo IMAGO

Bonds With Players and Club Culture

Beyond tactics, Postecoglou’s approach resonates with the spirit of Nottingham Forest. The club’s heritage of success and identity aligns with a coach whose footballing philosophy has been shaped by family and mentors. His father, Jim, instilled a love of attacking football, while the Hungarian legend Ferenc Puskas influenced his early development at South Melbourne Hellas in Australia.

Postecoglou has also drawn comparisons to Brian Clough for his impassioned press conferences and outspoken opinions on the modern game, including his criticism of VAR. These qualities suggest a manager capable of inspiring both players and supporters at Forest.

Building trust and connection is another strength. Even after a turbulent season at Spurs, Postecoglou remained the figure fans wanted to see at the Europa League trophy parade. He fosters loyalty and passion, creating strong relationships with players and supporters, a skill that will be crucial at Forest, a club hungry for silverware.

Challenges Ahead and Expectations

The task ahead is formidable. Postecoglou often requires a season to instil his intense style, and last term Spurs faced 41 injury cases, highlighting the physical demands of his football. Forest’s pre-season will be essential, yet the club faces pressure from an ambitious owner who may not accept an unsettled start.

Postecoglou replaces the club’s most successful coach of the 21st century, a high benchmark, but his record suggests he is one of the few managers equipped to handle the challenge. His CV includes multiple titles and European success, making him a credible candidate to restore Forest to contention for trophies.

For supporters, the arrival of Postecoglou represents optimism and excitement. He combines tactical acumen, a clear philosophy, and an ability to connect with those around him. The promise is that Forest, under his leadership, may not only stabilise in the Premier League but aim for success that has eluded the club for too long.

Postecoglou’s challenge is clear, his credentials strong, and Forest fans can anticipate a bold new era defined by attacking intent, resilience, and ambition. If last season at Spurs is any guide, the City Ground may witness footballing energy and commitment reminiscent of the club’s most celebrated periods.