The first leg of the 2025/26 UEFA Europa League play-offs will take place, with Nottingham Forest traveling to face Fenerbahce. New manager Vitor Pereira has stated that his team will face a tough challenge to overcome their current difficulties.

In the 26th round of the Premier League, Nottingham Forest, playing at home, could only manage a 0-0 draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers. After a record of 1 win, 3 draws and 1 loss in their last 5 matches, Nottingham Forest sits in 17th place in the standings with 27 points, just 3 points above the relegation zone.

Following the dismissal of Dyche, 57-year-old Vitor Pereira was appointed as Nottingham Forest's new manager earlier.

In an interview, Vitor Pereira stated, "In football, we can't just talk about three-year plans. Football is about the next game, then the next, and the next. If you're looking for security, you shouldn't be a manager."

“Boss Marinakis is ambitious, very hungry for victory and passionate, and I know him very well. From now on, the players must prove that they deserve everything they have achieved. It is impossible for me to think that we can accomplish anything without effort and hardship.”

Vitor Pereira also emphasized, "If the players agree with the coach's philosophy, that's a great start. If they don't, that's a big problem, so everyone must agree with the coach's qualities."

In addition, Nottingham Forest midfielder Gibbs White said of new manager Vitor Pereira, "As players, we get used to change. Managers come and go, and so do players, so it's very important for players to stay united during those times."

“Everything has been exciting since the new head coach arrived, and he has made it very clear to us what we want to achieve. He has brought a clear tactical philosophy, clearly telling us how to play, and the players have fully embraced that.”

Regarding the away game against Fenerbahce, Gibbs White said, "I don't think the team can really rehearse a certain atmosphere. The players just need to focus on their own performance and the team's situation, and how to do their best to help the team, and try not to pay attention to the atmosphere at the stadium."

Image source: Internet