Sacked in the Morning? Ange Postecoglou’s Nightmare Start at Forest

Nottingham Forest’s long-awaited European comeback was expected to be a night of joy. Instead, it turned bitter as Midtjylland departed the City Ground with a 3-2 win, leaving thousands of home supporters venting their anger. The clearest message came in the form of chants at Ange Postecoglou: “You’re getting sacked in the morning.” Less than a month into his reign, the new manager is already under immense scrutiny. This article explores what’s gone wrong, what lies ahead, and how the modern game offers few second chances. For those watching the drama unfold, there’s also a chance to turn insight into action – read to the end for an exclusive bonus from Melbet Ghana. 

The Weight of History – 29 Years in the Making

The City Ground hadn’t hosted European football in nearly three decades. That alone created a sense of occasion and expectation. Supporters, buoyed by memories of Brian Clough’s legendary reign and recent progress under Nuno Espírito Santo, saw the return to continental competition as a landmark moment.

But football doesn’t honour sentiment. A tough draw, coupled with internal transition, meant Forest’s return lacked the fairytale ending fans hoped for. That context only amplified the disappointment and criticism aimed at Postecoglou – a man replacing a beloved figure and facing near-impossible expectations.

A Manager Under Fire – Postecoglou’s Six-Game Struggle

Since stepping in as Forest’s manager, Ange Postecoglou has failed to register a win in six competitive matches. The team has conceded 13 goals in that time, with performances ranging from erratic to flat-out concerning.

Thursday’s Europa League defeat to Midtjylland only added to the narrative of early failure. Comparisons to past Forest managers – and even the club’s long-term struggles – make for tough reading. Postecoglou now carries the unwanted distinction of being the first permanent Forest boss in a century to go winless in his first six games.

Tactical Gaps or Cultural Misfit?

While some fans focus on set-piece defending and shaky formations, others point to a deeper issue: a disconnect between the manager and the culture of the club. Postecoglou, despite winning the Europa League with Tottenham, may still be viewed as an outsider.

That status can turn into a liability when things go wrong early. Tactical missteps are forgivable if the manager is seen as “one of us.” But when results and rapport are both lacking, pressure escalates – fast. Even a résumé full of European success offers little protection when the crowd turns.

Fan Frustration – Passion or Premature?

The chants at the City Ground were loud and emotional. But were they fair? Football is, by nature, an emotional sport – and supporters don’t always wait for a fair sample size.

Martin O’Neill, himself a former Forest manager, suggested the fans’ reaction may be more about lingering loyalty to Nuno than actual rejection of Postecoglou’s methods. Still, perception matters. And in the eyes of many, six games – winless or not – is enough to judge. Whether that’s reasonable or not remains a debate.

What’s Next – Crucial Fixtures and Redemption Window

Forest’s next match is away to Newcastle – hardly the ideal venue for a turnaround. But the Premier League calendar waits for no one. A string of decent performances could buy Postecoglou time and help shift the narrative.

What’s more likely, though, is that the next few weeks will define his tenure. Continued losses will test the club’s resolve, and a single win might not be enough to silence the chants. The window for redemption is open, but only just.

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Conclusion

Ange Postecoglou’s Forest reign has barely begun, but already feels fragile. The modern game leaves little room for adjustment, and fan sentiment can shift from hopeful to hostile in days. Even a Europa League winner isn’t immune.

Whether Postecoglou turns it around or becomes another short-term name on the club’s long managerial list, one thing is certain: in football, time is a luxury – and loyalty is fleeting.