18 October, 2025
Newcastle United v Nottingham Forest - Premier League

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 05: Ange Postecoglou, Head Coach of Nottingham Forest reacts during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest at St James' Park on October 05, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

UPDATE: In a dramatic press conference today, Nottingham Forest manager Ange Postecoglou fiercely defended his record amid swirling rumors about his future at the club. With Forest sitting in 17th place in the Premier League and facing a crucial match against Chelsea this Saturday, Postecoglou’s remarks highlight the intense scrutiny he is under just five weeks into his tenure.

The pressure has mounted as Forest has failed to secure a victory in their first seven games, prompting fans to voice their frustrations and speculate about potential changes in management. In a five-minute monologue, Postecoglou argued that his history at clubs demonstrates a consistent pattern: “My story always ends the same … with me and a trophy.”

Postecoglou reflected on his success at Tottenham, where he led the team to win the Europa League before his unexpected sacking. He rejected claims that he was “lucky” to be appointed at Forest following the dismissal of Nuno Espirito Santo. “If you look at things through the prism that I am a failed manager who’s lucky to get this job… these first five weeks look like ‘this guy is under pressure,’” he stated.

As he prepares for the match against Chelsea, Postecoglou addressed his critics, emphasizing that his achievements at Spurs—including finishing fifth in his first season without star player Harry Kane—are often overlooked. “Yet somehow that year has disappeared from the record books,” he noted, underscoring the challenges he faced during his time in London.

Postecoglou’s impassioned defense comes as he acknowledged the absurdity of being judged after such a brief period. “I only just found an apartment to move into,” he admitted, reflecting on the early stages of his new role. However, he remains resolute, stating, “There’s a different story to tell; maybe I am not a failed manager who was lucky to get this job; instead, maybe I am a manager who, if you give him time, the story always ends the same, as at all my previous clubs … with me and a trophy.”

Despite his strong words, the urgency for results is palpable. As Postecoglou prepares to face a formidable Chelsea side—one he has struggled against in the past—his future at Forest may hinge on immediate success. Owner Evangelos Marinakis has reportedly had “no talks” regarding Postecoglou’s future, leaving the manager with a sense of uncertainty as he approaches this pivotal match.

Nottingham Forest fans will be watching closely this weekend, as the outcome against Chelsea could determine not only Postecoglou’s immediate job security but also the club’s trajectory for the rest of the season. The stakes could not be higher as the Australian manager fights to turn the tide and secure his place at the helm of Forest.