The pre-season campaign for Nottingham Forest has presented Nuno Espirito Santo with clear insights into the significant challenges awaiting the squad as the new Premier League season rapidly approaches.

A persistent concern throughout Forest’s summer outings has been their striking struggles, with the team finding the net just once across five friendly fixtures. This significant lack of goals, alongside three goalless draws and two defeats, highlights an area demanding immediate attention from the coaching staff, ensuring the issue doesn’t carry over into the 2025/26 campaign.

While pre-season results are often dismissed as secondary to fitness and tactical experimentation, the underlying performance trends for Nottingham Forest offer a crucial glimpse into potential vulnerabilities. The team’s inability to convert chances, a problem that plagued them late last season, suggests a deeper systemic issue requiring strategic solutions.

Nuno’s pre-season has also served as a laboratory for tactical adjustments, with various formations and player combinations being tested to broaden the team’s strategic depth. While some experiments, such as playing four centre-backs, are unlikely to be seen in competitive matches, others, like a back five or specific attacking partnerships, hint at the tactical flexibility Forest aims to achieve.

The summer transfer window, though not overtly busy for the Reds, has seen some promising acquisitions, notably Ndoye, whose early enthusiasm bodes well for the team’s cohesion. These strategic transfers are vital as Nottingham Forest look to reinforce key areas and build a squad capable of competing vigorously in the demanding Premier League, addressing the need for both broad and specific talent.

With only two weeks remaining until their Premier League opener against Brentford, the urgency for Nottingham Forest to sharpen their attacking prowess and finalize their preferred lineup is paramount. The upcoming season is poised to be a pivotal one for the club, focusing on building upon existing foundations and striving for continued progression in the top flight, fueled by effective squad building.

Beyond the on-field action, the club continues to foster strong community ties, inviting fans to engage through initiatives like the Nottingham Forest WhatsApp group for instant news and updates. This connection underscores the broader relationship between the team and its passionate supporters, driving collective anticipation for the new campaign.

Players like Elliot Anderson are entering a critical phase in their development, with his strong performance last season setting the stage for a significant impact in the upcoming campaign. The emphasis on nurturing talent and integrating new players into Nuno’s system is key to Nottingham Forest’s long-term success and football analysis.