Nottingham Forest have kicked off the Premier League season strong, determined to steer clear of another relegation fight.
Nottingham Forest have enjoyed a strong start to the Premier League season. Sitting seventh in the table, they remain unbeaten with eight points from their first four matches.
It’s not just the results that are encouraging, but the performances too. Their historic 1-0 win at Anfield on Saturday is a prime example. Callum Hudson-Odoi’s stunning goal, combined with a solid defensive display, secured Forest’s first victory at Liverpool since 1969. Head coach Nuno Espirito Santo’s tactical brilliance was executed flawlessly by his squad.
The club entered this season with the goal of avoiding another relegation battle. After two seasons of fighting for survival, Forest is now focused on staying far from danger by the time May arrives.
Early signs are promising. A successful summer transfer window, Nuno’s clear impact on the training ground, and strong on-pitch performances are building optimism. In fact, there’s potential for even more improvement, and the team is already proving doubters wrong. While many predicted another tough season, evidence so far suggests Forest could aim higher in the table.
After an opening 1-1 draw with Bournemouth, Jamie Carragher predicted Forest would face relegation, saying, “I think Nottingham Forest have been close every season. And I think eventually the trapdoor opens.” Pundit Richard Keys also tipped them for another relegation scrap, though he believed their home form would be crucial.
Keys was right about the importance of the City Ground, but Forest have shown progress on the road too. Their win over Liverpool marked their fourth consecutive away victory in the Premier League, a feat they hadn’t achieved since 1995.
Former Forest defender Michael Dawson predicted a safer season for the club. He told Sky Sports, “I think Forest will stay up, but I hope it’s more comfortable than last year.”
Of course, predicting a season is always risky. Carragher, for one, was left red-faced after calling for a 2-0 Liverpool win before Saturday’s match. He even suggested Arne Slot might rest players, saying, “Two-nil, probably rest a couple for Milan in midweek.” Forest, however, had other plans.