Espirito Santo Calls on Forest Players to Give Their All in Final Four Matches of the Season

Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo has called on his players to muster a final effort and finish the season on a high note, following a surprising home defeat to Brentford on Thursday. The loss denied them an opportunity to leap to third in the Premier League and strengthen their chances of competing in next season’s Champions League.

As a result, Forest find themselves in sixth place, just outside the Champions League positions, having endured a fourth defeat in their last five matches. This sudden downturn comes after a period of consistent form that had placed them firmly in the race for European competition.

“It’s crucial,” declared Espirito Santo regarding the need to regain winning momentum with only four fixtures remaining in their season.

“We have earned the right to be in this position. Now that we are here, we must give everything we have,” he expressed to reporters following the 2-0 setback at the City Ground.

While acknowledging the disappointment of back-to-back defeats, including the FA Cup semi-final loss to Manchester City, the manager emphasised his concern was more about the team’s overall form as they prepare to face Crystal Palace away on Monday.

“I’m focused on us; how can we compete against Palace? How can we rediscover our identity and dominate, even when we lack possession? We don’t need to change, but rather return to our best version,” he stated.

“We have consistently discussed our playing style. Our foundation is built on being compact and solid—we mustn’t give away opportunities. We are a team that supports each other, and it should always be more challenging for our opponents to achieve what Brentford did today. With all due respect to Brentford, it was too simple for them.”

Despite the increasing pressure, Espirito Santo remains confident that Forest will rally.

“I see belief, determination, and commitment. However, the reality is we are encountering difficulties in certain aspects of our play—focus and the resolve to handle situations that should be straightforward to manage,” the manager concluded.