Nottingham forest staff’s true feelings on Ange Postecoglou emerge after EFL Cup defeat – dramatic irony

Turbulence at the City Ground: Nottingham Forest Staff Grapple with Ange Postecoglou’s Rocky Start

As the autumn chill sets in over Nottingham, the City Ground is buzzing with a mix of optimism and unease following Ange Postecoglou’s appointment as Nottingham Forest’s new manager. Just weeks into his tenure, the Australian tactician has endured two stinging defeats, leaving his backroom team navigating uncharted waters.

Postecoglou’s arrival in early September was hailed as a bold coup for the Tricky Trees, fresh off his Europa League triumph with Tottenham despite their dismal Premier League finish. Bringing trusted lieutenants like assistant Mile Jedinak, Nick Montgomery, Sergio Raimundo, and goalkeeping coach Rob Burch from Spurs, he aimed to instill his high-octane, attacking philosophy. Yet, reality has bitten hard. On September 13, Arsenal dismantled Forest 3-0 at the Emirates, exposing defensive frailties in a one-sided affair. Four days later, in the Carabao Cup third round, Championship side Swansea City staged a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory, conceding twice in stoppage time after Forest had led 2-1.

Behind the scenes, staff sentiments are a blend of loyalty and frustration. Jedinak, Postecoglou’s right-hand man, remains steadfast, praising the boss’s unwavering belief in his methods during private team meetings. “Ange’s vision is clear; we’re building something special,” a source close to the coaching staff told local media, echoing the group’s commitment forged in Tottenham’s highs and lows. However, whispers among longer-serving Forest personnel hint at growing concerns over the squad’s adaptation to Postecoglou’s intense style. One backroom insider admitted to the Nottingham Post that the rapid concessions against Swansea stemmed from “complacency we can’t afford,” aligning with Ange’s post-match accusation of his players lacking focus.

Postecoglou himself issued a stern warning after the Swansea loss, urging calmer heads and promising no easy paths ahead. With Jedinak’s crew rallying the troops, the staff’s resolve appears solid, but pressure mounts as Forest face a crucial league clash next weekend. In a club craving stability, Ange’s honeymoon is over—staff hope his trophy-winning pedigree will turn the tide before doubts deepen.