Nottingham forest fans have issued a brutal verdict on Ange Postecoglou just after his first match

### Nottingham Forest Fans Voice Frustration with Postecoglou’s Tactics in Arsenal Loss

**Nottingham, September 13, 2025** – As the echoes of the final whistle faded at the Emirates Stadium, Nottingham Forest supporters were left fuming over Ange Postecoglou’s bold but brittle tactics. In his first match as manager – a 3-0 Premier League defeat to Arsenal – the Australian’s high-octane “Angeball” approach crumbled against Mikel Arteta’s clinical side, conceding three goals and igniting widespread discontent just days after Postecoglou’s appointment.

Appointed on September 9 following Nuno Espírito Santo’s sacking, Postecoglou inherited a Forest team eyeing European contention after last season’s solid finish. Yet, his debut exposed familiar flaws from his Tottenham tenure. The high defensive line, a cornerstone of his philosophy, invited Arsenal’s exploitation. Declan Rice struck first in the 22nd minute, rifling in from distance after bypassing Forest’s aggressive press. Bukayo Saka doubled the lead on the stroke of halftime with a devastating counter, and Gabriel Martinelli’s 68th-minute finish rubbed salt in the wounds, leaving the Reds’ backline in tatters.

In the away end, red-and-white clad fans turned from hopeful to hostile. “Ange’s all attack, no sense – we’re wide open!” vented lifelong supporter Lisa Hargreaves, 45, from Nottingham’s Trent End. “Nuno had us solid; this is suicide against Arsenal.” Social media mirrored the mood: #AngeOut surged on X within minutes, with over 8,000 posts decrying the tactical naivety. A viral video captured a fan tossing a scarf skyward, shouting, “High line? More like high treason!”

Postecoglou, unveiled amid promise on Thursday, remained defiant post-match. “We’re here to play brave, exciting football,” he said. “Three goals conceded stings, but the spirit was there. We’ll adapt and push for trophies.” His optimism rang hollow, though, as Forest slipped to eighth after three games. Critics noted the stark shift from Nuno’s pragmatic setup, questioning if Postecoglou’s unyielding style suits a squad still bedding in.

For Forest faithful, this Arsenal humbling – the heaviest under the new boss – feels like a false start. Banners in the stands read: “Attack with passion, defend with purpose.” With Europa League dreams on the line, fan patience is already fraying. Can Postecoglou tweak his vision, or will early pressure demand change? The City Ground awaits answers.