Former Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou set for Premier League return with Nottingham Forest

English Premier League side Nottingham Forest are expected to appoint former Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou to replace Nuno Espirito Santo.

Espirito Santo was sacked on Monday night following a breakdown in his relationship with owner Evangelos Marinakis.

Postecoglou, who has been out of work since leaving Tottenham Hotspur in June, is the leading candidate for the job at the City Ground, the PA news agency understands.

The Australian won five trophies in two seasons at Celtic Park before leaving for North London in 2023.

However, despite leading Spurs to Europa League glory in May, he was sacked just 16 days later.

He now looks set to get another crack at the Premier League and European football at the City Ground.

And he could be set for a swift return to north London as Forest visit Arsenal in the Premier League on Saturday lunchtime.

Espirito Santo was relieved of his duties on Monday night after publicly falling out with Marinakis this summer.

The 51-year-old was given a new contract in June after guiding Forest into the Europa League last term, their first European qualification since 1995, but cracks were beginning to show behind the scenes.

He had a poor working relationship with global head of football Edu Gaspar and his bond with Marinakis suffered as a result.

He questioned the club’s transfer business ahead of the new season and then pre-empted his own sacking by saying “where there’s smoke, there’s fire” when asked about his future at the club.

He was set for peace talks with Marinakis during the international break, but the Greek businessman pulled the trigger without them happening.

Forest said in a statement: “Nottingham Forest Football Club confirms that, following recent circumstances, Nuno Espirito Santo has today been relieved of his duties as head coach.

“The club thanks Nuno for his contribution during a very successful era at the City Ground, in particular his role in the 2024/25 season, which will forever be remembered fondly in the history of the club.

“As someone who played a pivotal role in our success last season, he will always hold a special place in our journey.”