Nottingham Forest’s squad depth assessed following their recent summer transfer window moves.
Nuno Espirito Santo wanted Nottingham Forest to finish the summer transfer window with a squad offering plenty of “options and solutions.” The Reds’ head coach prefers a smaller group of versatile players but also wants enough depth to push up the Premier League table.
Forest made 11 signings before the August 30 deadline. Carlos Miguel, Eric da Silva Moreira, Nikola Milenkovic, Morato, Alex Moreno, Elliot Anderson, James Ward-Prowse, Jota Silva, and Ramon Sosa have joined the squad, while Marko Stamenic and David Carmo were loaned to Olympiacos.
The club did some good business, with most new players making positive early impressions. Here’s a breakdown of the current squad depth now that the transfer window has closed.
Goalkeepers
There was always going to be a shake-up in the goalkeeper department this summer. One surprise was Matt Turner joining Crystal Palace on loan despite Forest not signing a second keeper. Matz Sels remains the No.1, while Carlos Miguel showed promise in his debut against Newcastle. Turner’s departure leaves only two senior goalkeepers, which could be an area revisited in January.
Goalkeepers on the books: Matz Sels, Carlos Miguel, Matt Turner (on loan at Crystal Palace).
Full-backs
Competition for full-back spots will be interesting. Alex Moreno will want minutes after his loan from Aston Villa, while Ola Aina, who played left-back last season, may shift to the right. Neco Williams will also compete for a place, and new signing Moreira offers versatility across the backline. Omar Richards, currently on loan, remains a question mark for future involvement.
Full-backs on the books: Neco Williams, Ola Aina, Eric da Silva Moreira, Harry Toffolo, Alex Moreno, Omar Richards (on loan at Rio Ave).
Centre-backs
Nuno might opt for a three-man defense as he did at Wolverhampton. Adding Morato gives Forest plenty of options, though Milenkovic and Murillo seem the current favorites. Willy Boly and Andrew Omobamidele will push for opportunities, providing depth and experience.
Centre-backs on the books: Willy Boly, Murillo, Andrew Omobamidele, Nikola Milenkovic, Morato, Jonathan Panzo (on loan at Rio Ave), David Carmo (on loan at Olympiacos).
Midfielders
Even with Danilo sidelined for months with a broken ankle, Forest are well-stocked in midfield. James Ward-Prowse brings quality, especially with set-pieces, but fitting him into the starting XI is a challenge. Ibrahim Sangare has potential, and Elliot Anderson has been impressive. Ryan Yates and Nicolas Dominguez add further competition.
Midfielders on the books: Ryan Yates, Danilo, Nicolas Dominguez, Ibrahim Sangare, Elliot Anderson, James Ward-Prowse, Lewis O’Brien (on loan at Los Angeles FC), Marko Stamenic (on loan at Olympiacos).
Wingers/Attackers
Forest prioritized signing wingers in pre-season. Callum Hudson-Odoi and Anthony Elanga are no longer guaranteed starters with new arrivals Jota Silva and Ramon Sosa challenging them. Morgan Gibbs-White remains crucial in the No.10 role but has backup options.
Wingers/Attackers on the books: Morgan Gibbs-White, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Anthony Elanga, Jota Silva, Ramon Sosa, Josh Bowler (on loan at Preston North End).
Strikers
Striker depth is a concern for Forest. With Emmanuel Dennis out of favor and no new striker signings, Taiwo Awoniyi and Chris Wood will lead the line until at least January. Awoniyi is still regaining fitness, while Nuno could consider Sosa or Jota as emergency options.
Strikers on the books: Taiwo Awoniyi, Chris Wood, Emmanuel Dennis.
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