Nottingham Forest Football Club have announced the dismissal of their head coach, Sean Dyche, after a tenure of just 114 days. This move sets the club on a search for its fourth manager within the current season.
The decision to sack Dyche came after Forest was held to a goalless draw by bottom club Wolves. With only three points separating them from the Premier League relegation zone and 12 games remaining, this season has been challenging for Nottingham Forest.
Dyche, aged 54, took over from Ange Postecoglou in October and had signed a contract until summer 2027. However, his tenure was cut short due to the team's performance. Postecoglou himself lasted just 39 days in the job after replacing Nuno Espirito Santo who was dismissed three matches into the 2025-26 campaign. This managerial merry-go-round could see Nottingham Forest become the first Premier League club to have four permanent managers in one season.
Journey under Dyche
When Dyche took over at City Ground, he inherited a team that sat uncomfortably at 18th place with only one win from eight games - an undoubtedly difficult start to their season. Despite losing his first match against Bournemouth (2-0), he managed to guide Forest out of danger with four wins and one draw in their next seven matches.
Nottingham Forest released statement:
"Nottingham Forest Football Club can confirm that Sean Dyche has been relieved of his duties as head coach,"
"We would like to thank Sean and his staff for their efforts during their time at the club and we wish them the best of luck for the future. We will be making no further comment at this time."
However, despite an unbeaten run of four matches - including victories against fellow strugglers West Ham and league leaders Arsenal - they remained embroiled in relegation battles due largely to improved performances by Leeds United and West Ham.
European endeavours
Despite domestic struggles, under Dyche's leadership Nottingham finished at an impressive 13th place in Europa League group stages with four wins out of eight matches. This allowed them entry into knockout phase where they are set to face Turkish side Fenerbahce over two legs for a chance to reach the last 16.
In terms of domestic cup competitions, Forest's journey has been less than ideal. They suffered a 3-2 defeat against Swansea under Postecoglou in the EFL Cup third round in September and were knocked out of the FA Cup on penalties by Championship side Wrexham under Dyche last month.
As Nottingham Forest looks ahead, they face an uphill battle both domestically and internationally. The club will need strong leadership from their next manager to navigate through these challenges and secure their place in Premier League while also making strides in European competition.
