In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through English football, it has emerged that Nottingham Forest made an audacious attempt to prise Ange Postecoglou away from Tottenham Hotspur during the chaotic 2023-24 season.
The Bold Approach
According to exclusive information obtained by Mail Sport, Forest's hierarchy identified Postecoglou as their primary target to replace the struggling Steve Cooper. The approach came during a period of intense pressure at the City Ground, with Forest languishing in the lower reaches of the Premier League table.
The Greek-Australian manager was already making waves at Tottenham, implementing his attractive, attacking brand of football that had won him plaudits across the division. Despite this, Forest saw an opportunity to capitalise on any early uncertainties at Spurs.
Timing and Tactics
The approach is understood to have been made through intermediaries, testing the waters about Postecoglou's potential interest in a dramatic mid-season switch. Forest's ambitious owners were prepared to back their new manager significantly in the transfer market, making the proposition even more tempting.
"It was a bold, some might say reckless, move," a source close to the negotiations revealed. "Forest knew they were punching above their weight, but in football, you never know unless you try."
Why Postecoglou Said No
Several factors worked against Forest's ambitious plot:
- Tottenham's project appeal: Postecoglou was deeply committed to the long-term project at Spurs
- European ambitions: Champions League football remained a realistic target
- Squad quality: Tottenham's roster offered greater technical ability
- Stability concerns: Forest's reputation for managerial changes raised red flags
The Fallout and Forest's Alternative
When Postecoglou rejected their advances, Forest eventually turned to former Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo. The Portuguese manager steered the club to Premier League safety, but questions remain about what might have been had their ambitious coup been successful.
The failed approach reveals the growing ambition at the City Ground, where owner Evangelos Marinakis has shown he's not afraid to think big when it comes to managerial appointments.
Broader Implications
This revelation highlights the cut-throat nature of Premier League management, where clubs are constantly monitoring each other's managers and prepared to pounce at the first sign of uncertainty. Postecoglou's continued success at Tottenham only makes Forest's attempted coup more intriguing in hindsight.
The episode also demonstrates how quickly managerial reputations can change in English football's top flight, with Postecoglou going from Celtic hero to Tottenham revolutioniser to Forest target within a remarkably short timeframe.
