‘Humbled’ Ange Postecoglou aiming to lead Nottingham Forest to ‘rightful place’ after replacing Nuno Espirito Santo

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In his first interview since taking over from Nuno Espirito Santo, Ange Postecoglou outlined his ambitions to help Nottingham Forest take the next step. Postecoglou was sacked by Tottenham after leading them to the UEFA Europa League title and a 17th-place Premier League finish. However, he has not had to wait long to make his return and will be in charge of Forest's game at Arsenal on Saturday.

Postecoglou vows 'to win trophies' at Nottingham Forest after Spurs success

Video credit: SNTV

New Nottingham Forest manager Ange Postecoglou has laid out his ambition to take the club forward and improve on what was a remarkable 2024/25 campaign under Nuno Espirito Santo.

Despite guiding Forest to a seventh-place Premier League finish last season and qualifying for Europe, Nuno was relieved of his duties late on Tuesday night after a breakdown in his relationship with club owner Evangelos Marinakis.

Postecoglou was officially announced the following day – in time to be in the dugout for Forest’s clash away to Arsenal on Saturday, live on TNT Sports and discovery+ – and the former Tottenham Hotspur boss has now given his first interview in his new role.

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"The one thing that hits you the most when you go into a new role is the responsibility," Postecoglou told Forest TV. "It’s a fantastic football club with great history and, even in recent times, it has done really well.

"You bear that responsibility, but I’m excited, and I’m looking forward to it, and I’m really happy to be here."

Postecoglou’s tenure at Spurs was one of staggering contrasts. He led the club to its first major trophy in 17 years with a UEFA Europa League triumph, but also oversaw a disastrous league campaign in which Tottenham finished just one place above the relegation zone in 17th.

However, the 60-year-old has always backed himself and displayed unwavering confidence in his methods. He is, therefore, in no doubt he can help Forest take the "next step" and build on the momentum that has been built since their return to the top tier of English football.

"This club has real ambitions and that’s really important to me," he added. "We’ve got an exciting squad. Playing against the club last season, you could tell there was a really strong unity and you want to be a part of that because you know that’s what’s required to be successful.

"I’ve worked myself into this position over the past 28 years because I’ve never put any limits on what I want to achieve. Wherever I’ve been, I’ve been fortunate to have success which has allowed me to take that next step.

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"When you look at what the club has achieved in recent times, it’s an outstanding feat to be where we are right now. Other clubs that have won promotion have struggled to stay in the league, but in a short space of time we’re back in Europe and competing for honours, which is a great credit to everyone involved.

"I get a sense that the club wants more and that’s certainly what I want, so I think it’s a really exciting time.

"I understand the history of this football club and I understand there’s a responsibility there, and I’ll bear that responsibility. I’m honoured and I’m humbled, but more importantly I’m determined to make sure this football club takes its rightful place."

Watch the Premier League, Men's and Women's FA Cup, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League and UEFA Conference League on TNT Sports and discovery+

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