Vitor Pereira has described his sudden dismissal as Nottingham Forest head coach as a 'complete surprise' that came 'without warning'. The Portuguese manager released a statement confirming his departure, stating that the decision was unexpected and that he had not been given any prior indication of the club's intentions.
Break Clause Triggered After Successful Season
Pereira signed an 18-month contract with Forest in February 2026, taking over with the club in a relegation battle. He successfully guided them to Premier League survival and an impressive run to the Europa League semi-finals. However, a break clause in his contract allowed either party to terminate the agreement in June. It is understood that Forest informed Pereira they wished to 'go in a different direction' as the deadline approached.
Despite the impending clause, Pereira had been actively planning for the new season, including pre-season preparations and participating in player recruitment meetings. The sudden nature of the decision left him blindsided, according to his statement.
Oliver Glasner Linked as Successor
Reports suggest that former Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner is the frontrunner to take over at the City Ground. Glasner left Palace at the end of the 2025-26 season after a successful stint that included winning the FA Cup in 2024-25 and the Conference League title the following year. He has been linked with several top European jobs since his departure.
Forest declined to comment when contacted by the PA news agency.
Pereira's Record at Forest
During his time at Forest, Pereira won eight of his 20 matches in charge, securing the club's fifth consecutive season in the Premier League. He also previously kept Wolverhampton Wanderers in the top flight during the 2024-25 campaign. The 57-year-old's dismissal marks an abrupt end to a tenure that had restored stability and delivered European football to the City Ground.
