Exclusive: Nottingham Forest in Advanced Talks to Appoint Sean Dyche as Manager to Plot Survival Course
Nottingham Forest edge closer to naming Sean Dyche as new manager amid relegation battle, with the ex-Everton boss poised to replace sacked Ange Postecoglou after crisis talks at City Ground.


Crisis at City Ground: Dyche Emerges as Front-Runner
Nottingham Forest are finalizing terms with Sean Dyche to become their third permanent manager this season, following the abrupt dismissal of Ange Postecoglou just 39 days into his tenure. The club's hierarchy views Dyche's pragmatic approach as critical to avoiding relegation after a disastrous start (1 win in 8 matches).
Key Developments:
- Dyche held 12-hour negotiations with Forest executives over weekend
- Former Burnley boss considered safer bet than Marco Silva (complicated Fulham exit clauses)
- Roberto Mancini's candidacy loses momentum despite early talks
- Forest have spent £8.2m in compensation fees this season alone
Tactical Blueprint: Why Dyche Fits Forest's DNA
Statistical comparison of Nuno Espirito Santo vs Dyche's tactical profiles
Dyche's low-block defensive organization and rapid counter-attacking philosophy align with Forest's 2024-25 European qualification campaign under Nuno:
Metric | Nuno's Forest (2024-25) | Dyche's Everton (2023-24) |
---|---|---|
Avg. Possession | 42.1% | 39.8% |
PPDA | 14.2 | 12.9 |
Direct Speed | 1.8 m/s | 2.1 m/s |
From Brian Clough's Apprentice to Crisis Firefighter
Dyche's potential return to Forest carries historical weight:
- 1987-1990: Youth player under legendary manager Brian Clough
- Coaching Pedigree: 10-year Burnley tenure with two promotions
- Survival Expert: Kept Everton up despite -10 point deduction
The Road Ahead
Critical November Fixtures:
- Nov 4: vs Brentford (H)
- Nov 11: @ Sheffield United (A)
- Nov 25: vs Luton Town (H)
BBC pundit Paul Birch notes: ">Dyche's appointment signals a back-to-basics approach. Forest can't afford another philosophical experiment with survival at stake."