In a chaotic campaign marked by two quick managerial exits, Forest entrust former youth player Sean Dyche with the task of stabilising the club and salvaging their season.

In a bold move designed to halt a spiralling start to the season, Nottingham Forest F.C. have appointed Sean Dyche as their new head coach, making him the club’s third permanent manager of the 2025–26 campaign.

Dyche, 54, has signed a contract that will run through to the summer of 2027, tasking him with turning around a season that has already gone off the rails. The appointment comes just days after the dismissal of Ange Postecoglou, whose 39-day tenure ended following a 3–0 home defeat to Chelsea F.C., leaving Forest at 18th place with just five points from eight matches.

A rocky road to October

The decision to bring in Dyche underscores the degree of urgency at the City Ground. The season began with Nuno Espírito Santo in charge, but his relationship with owner Evangelos Marinakis reportedly deteriorated quickly, leading to his exit in early September. Postecoglou’s arrival seemed to signal ambition, but results failed to follow — and the club moved swiftly.

Dyche is no stranger to the Premier League’s firing line, having managed Burnley F.C. for a decade and more recently Everton F.C. until January 2025. His reputation: pragmatic, defensively organised squads — precisely what Forest believe their squad needs.

Why Dyche?

The club’s official statement emphasised several qualities: his “perfect blend of character, tactical acumen and proven achievement.” Moreover, he is a former Forest youth player — so there is a sentimental connection, a narrative of returning home.

Forest’s hierarchy, led by Marinakis along with Global Head of Football Edu Gaspar and Global Technical Director George Syrianos, reportedly evaluated a number of high-profile candidates, including Marco Silva and Roberto Mancini, before settling on Dyche. The deciding factors: his recent Premier League experience and defensive credentials.

The challenge ahead

The situation Dyche inherits is demanding. Forest are rooted to the bottom of the Premier League and already face an uphill battle both domestically and in the UEFA Europa League, their first foray into Europe in 29 years. He will take charge in midweek as they face FC Porto in Europe — a baptism by fire.

Defensively, the squad has looked unstable. Forest conceded 18 goals in eight matches under Postecoglou and endured a winless streak. The required turnaround will need time — something this season has scarcely afforded them so far.

Setting the tone

Dyche’s past sides have been notable for structure and resilience rather than flash. At Burnley he secured promotion twice and built a side capable of punching above its weight. Bringing that ethos to the City Ground may be exactly what Forest need for survival.

His coaching team will include former Forest players Ian Woan and Steve Stone, signalling a return to internal culture and club identity.

Risks and opportunities

On the upside, Dyche’s methodical approach may offer stability in a season where change has been constant. His prior connection to Forest could help unify the fan base and re-establish local identity. On the downside, his longer-term style might require time — and the club’s current position offers little margin for error. The board clearly expects an immediate response.

What to watch

• Immediate results: Can Forest avoid slipping further down the table and in Europe under the new regime?
• Defensive improvement: A key marker will be whether Dyche’s methods can plug the glaring defensive holes.
• Player buy-in: With new leadership comes the need for squad alignment — both tactically and mentally.
• Fan response: After two quick managerial changes, patience may be thin among supporters.

Bottom line

Nottingham Forest’s appointment of Sean Dyche marks a decisive shift in direction. They have swapped fleeting ambition for grounded experience, and returned to someone who knows the club. Whether this proves the right move remains to be seen — but in a season already defined by turbulence, it may be their best chance of survival.