Evangelos Marinakis threatens ‘tough’ Nottingham Forest decision that fans would absolutely hate
Evangelos Marinakis’ ambition has led to incredibly exciting times at Nottingham Forest, but one decision he could make would not go down well with Reds fans.
The Forest owner’s summer might become more complicated than first thought, as Nuno Espírito Santo could leave his role as manager with interest in Europe and Saudi Arabia.
However, Nottingham Forest News sources suggest that Forest will offer Espírito Santo a new deal to avoid this situation from escalating to the point of his departure.
This would leave Marinakis with the time to focus on incoming transfers, as well as one legacy-defining issue that could make him rather unpopular at the club should he get it wrong.
Evangelos Marinakis could make worrying City Ground decision
The club’s intended work on the City Ground is no secret, with Marinakis aiming to expand the famous old stadium into a 50,000-capacity stadium to match the upward trajectory of the club.
As of January, the City Ground plans were progressing, but were eventually put on hold for the season, as the City Ground will host the England men’s national team in June.
However, according to Tom Collomosse at the Daily Mail in a recent Q&A, the expansion isn’t in the healthiest position.
He said: “Forest hope to start redevelopment work in summer 2026 but there are still hurdles to clear, and Forest retain the option of building an entirely new home elsewhere – as unpopular as that would be initially with their supporters.
“Stadium projects can be infuriating for fans as there is continual back-and-forth with local government and other stakeholders, which delays the process. Look at how long Arsenal and Tottenham needed to deliver their new grounds.
“Marinakis would never publicly tie himself to a certain date as it would weaken his negotiating position, but the Forest owner wants the club to play in front of 50,000 and if that’s not possible at the City Ground, he won’t be afraid to take the tough decision.”
Certainly concerning for the overwhelming majority of Forest fans who would hate to leave the City Ground, Marinakis’ outlook on this subject hasn’t changed much in recent times.
Evangelos Marinakis has already hinted at a City Ground departure
Michael Dawson urged Forest to remain at the City Ground in the same way that the fans have, but it has always been an option in the back of the mind of Marinakis to build a new home.
Speaking to the Daily Mail almost exactly a year ago, the Forest owner was quizzed on the City Ground redevelopment plans, and his answer was ominous.
He said: “It will change the history in years to come of the region and the team for our supporters.
“It’ll be hard to leave City Ground, but in an age when revenue streams dictate success on the pitch, there’s no doubt moving to a bigger facility will set the club on the right path.”
Forest fans will be hoping that this “right path” doesn’t lead their club away from their beloved home, but the endless delays to the redevelopment plans may see Marinakis grow impatient and seek an alternative solution.
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