Ange Postecoglou demands instant impact at Nottingham Forest
New Nottingham Forest head coach Ange Postecoglou insists he can't afford to wait as he aims to rapidly implement his style, despite a 3-0 opening-day defeat at Arsenal.
Nottingham Forest’s new head coach, Ange Postecoglou, says he cannot afford to waste time as he implements his playing philosophy.
The Australian's first match saw Forest lose 3-0 at Arsenal, with Martin Zubimendi and Viktor Gyokeres on target for the league leaders.
Immediate changes
Appointed just days before the clash at the Emirates, Postecoglou outlined his intent to build the team in his image from the outset. Forest managed only one shot on target and posted their lowest xG under the previous manager, Nuno Espírito Santo.
"Wednesday against Swansea — I can't afford to waste time. This is not a project," Postecoglou said, pledging swift influence on and off the pitch.
Player reaction
Midfielder Elliot Anderson highlighted positives despite the defeat. He praised the new ideas and called for trust in the coach's vision. "We have the players to execute his style. We just need to practice and believe," he told TNT Sports.
Tactical shifts
Forest deployed a back four, hinting at a 4-4-1-1 formation. They aimed for higher territorial build-up, reducing direct speed compared to last season. Defensively, they appeared to switch between man-marking and a high line, leaving gaps that Arsenal exploited.
The use of wide full-backs instead of inverted roles also marked a departure from Postecoglou’s previous teams, suggesting adaptation due to limited preparation time.
Looking ahead
Forest sit on four points after four league games and will host Swansea next. The real measure of Postecoglou’s impact will emerge as his methods take root.
"Postecoglou's immediate mandate is clear: instil his style without delay, even at the risk of early setbacks."
This topic was reported by BBC Sport.
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