Ola Aina, Awoniyi get new coach as Nottingham Forest appoints Vítor Pereira

Nottingham Forest have officially announced the appointment of Portuguese manager Vítor Pereira as their new head coach on an 18-month contract until the summer of 2027.

The 57-year-old takes charge at the City Ground during a turbulent 2025/26 campaign, becoming Forest’s fourth managerial appointment of the season.

His immediate priority will be to steer the club clear of relegation danger while maintaining competitiveness in Europe.

Pereira’s arrival brings renewed optimism for Nigerian internationals Ola Aina and Taiwo Awoniyi, who remain key figures in Forest’s squad.

Aina has been one of the club’s most consistent performers this season. Meanwhile, Awoniyi continues to be a central attacking presence when fit.

Pereira brings extensive international experience, having enjoyed success across multiple leagues. He rose to prominence at FC Porto, where he secured back-to-back Primeira Liga titles.

He later lifted silverware with Olympiacos F.C., winning the domestic double, and achieved league glory in China with Shanghai Port F.C.

His managerial resume also includes spells at Fenerbahçe S.K., Sport Club Corinthians Paulista, and Clube de Regatas do Flamengo.

Most recently, he managed Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C., where he orchestrated a dramatic turnaround, guiding the club from the relegation zone to safety with a six-match winning run.

Forest currently sits just above the Premier League drop zone.