Exclusive: Champions League Winning Manager Keen on Nottingham Forest Job

Rafa Benitez being eyed by Nottingham Forest increases the likelihood of a managerial change; betting markets may shorten odds on Ange Postecoglou's dismissal and make Benitez a frontrunner for the vacancy. Punters could find value on "next manager" markets and consider backing Forest to struggle in short-term fixtures as instability grows, especially ahead of key home games against Chelsea, Porto and Manchester United.

Rafa Benitez on Nottingham Forest shortlist as Postecoglou's future comes under pressure

Rafa Benitez is understood to be among the leading candidates Nottingham Forest are considering if they opt to move on from Ange Postecoglou. The 65-year-old has been out of work since leaving Celta Vigo in March 2024 and remains open to a Premier League return. His experience in England and Europe places him high on the club’s internal list as they monitor a worrying winless run.

Postecoglou under scrutiny after seven games without a win

Ange Postecoglou’s start in the East Midlands has failed to deliver results, leaving him seven matches without a victory and increasing pressure from supporters and the board. Forest’s schedule offers a potential reprieve — three of their next four fixtures are at the City Ground — but the next slate of home games against Chelsea, Porto and Manchester United will be pivotal in determining his short-term future.

Marco Silva admired but compensation and protocol are barriers

Fulham manager Marco Silva reportedly attracts interest within Forest’s hierarchy, but Premier League protocol and the significant compensation required to approach a rival's boss make that option complicated. Owner considerations around optics and precedent would also factor into any move for a current Premier League manager.

Benitez’s availability and candidate dynamics

Benitez has been on the market for some time and has reportedly received multiple approaches. A return to frontline management at Forest would appeal to him if the club decides to act quickly. Other candidates are also being discussed behind closed doors as the board weighs short-term results against long-term stability.

Betting market implications for punters

The mounting speculation is already likely to influence betting markets. Odds on Postecoglou losing his job should shorten if the winless run continues, while Benitez could emerge as a favourite in the "next manager" markets. Punters may also find value in short-term match markets for Forest, particularly around draws or defeats as managerial uncertainty affects form and morale.

What Forest need next

Forest's immediate priority is form: positive results in the upcoming home fixtures would buy Postecoglou time and defuse calls for change. Conversely, further poor results would accelerate decision-making at board level and intensify recruitment talks for an experienced replacement.

Exclusive: Nottingham Forest are seriously considering hiring a Champions League winning manager if they sack Ange Postecoglou.

Givemesport