Slot will probably win the league, but Nuno is the manager of the year | OneFootball

After narrowly avoiding relegation from the Premier League last season, Nottingham Forest went into the new campaign with limited ambitions.

Climbing the standings was the primary aim. A decent cup run would have been a bonus for a club that has not won a major trophy since 1989/90.

Fast forward to today, and Forest are firmly in contention to secure Champions League qualification. They are also through to the FA Cup semi-final.

Manager Nuno Espirito Santo has built a team which is greater than the sum of its parts.

Forest’s counter-attacking style is the perfect antidote to the overbearing modern-era obsession with possession-based football.

Nuno’s side have recorded several statement victories including a 1-0 league win at Liverpool in September. They are the only team to defeat the Reds in the league this season.

The 51-year-old previously showcased his credentials with Wolverhampton Wanderers, building a team which punched above its weight in the Premier League.

An ill-fated spell at Tottenham Hotspur briefly dented Nuno’s reputation, and his subsequent move to the Saudi Pro League seemed to suggest he was finished in European football.

Forest’s decision to appoint Nuno as Steve Cooper’s replacement raised plenty of eyebrows, but it has proved to be an inspired move.

Nuno would be a worthy recipient of the Manager of the Year award, regardless of how their season ends.

Liverpool boss Arne Slot is a strong contender after overseeing their title challenge, but Nuno has achieved more this season.