Nottingham Forest have appointed Vitor Pereira as head coach until the end of next season, handing him the task of steering the club clear of Premier League relegation trouble after a turbulent campaign.
The 57-year-old Portuguese manager replaces Sean Dyche, who was dismissed following Forest’s goalless draw against Wolves. Pereira becomes the fourth manager to take charge at the City Ground since September, underlining the instability that has defined Forest’s season.
Forest currently sit 17th in the table, just three points above the relegation zone, with only two wins from their last 10 league matches. The club’s hierarchy acted swiftly after recent setbacks, deciding a change was necessary to spark improvement during the final stretch of the campaign.
Pereira returns to English football after leaving Wolves in November. During his 11-month spell at Molineux, he oversaw 38 matches and secured Premier League survival last season. However, a difficult start to the current campaign, with Wolves collecting just two points from their opening 10 fixtures, led to his departure.
His relationship with Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis is seen as a key factor in the appointment. Pereira previously worked under Marinakis at Olympiacos, winning the Greek league title and cup during the 2014 15 season. That past success has reportedly strengthened confidence that he can stabilise Forest during a challenging period.
Pereira’s managerial career spans more than two decades and multiple countries, including Portugal, Germany, China, Brazil, and Saudi Arabia. Known for his structured approach and tactical discipline, he now faces the immediate challenge of organising a side that has struggled for consistency and confidence.
Forest’s season has been marked by upheaval. Nuno Espirito Santo departed early despite guiding the club to a seventh-place finish and European qualification last term. Ange Postecoglou followed but lasted just 39 days without a league win. Dyche initially brought stability, winning seven of his first 12 matches, yet a downturn in form reignited concerns about survival.
Pereira’s first assignment will be a high-profile Europa League knockout round play-off tie away to Fenerbahce, another of his former clubs. Days later, Forest hosts Liverpool in the league, offering little time for adjustment.
With both domestic and European fixtures looming, Pereira steps into a high-pressure environment. The objective is clear. Secure Premier League safety, restore structure on the pitch, and provide the stability that has eluded Forest throughout a chaotic season.
