Pereira opens up on shock Nottingham Forest exit

The Portuguese has released a statement since confirming his exit as Nottingham Forest manager, setting out more of his reaction to a decision he says came without notice.

"The decision coming as a complete surprise to me," Pereira said, confirming he had received no indication his position was under threat.

In the statement, Pereira said his time in charge had come to an abrupt end, writing that "today marks the end of my journey as head coach of Nottingham Forest."

He thanked everyone connected with the club, singling out the progress made by his squad over the course of the campaign.

Pereira said he had watched his players grow in confidence and togetherness during his time in charge, describing it as one of the most rewarding experiences of his career.

He also thanked his coaching staff and the club's supporters, saying their backing had made him feel welcome from his first day at the City Ground.

Pereira added that he was leaving Forest without bitterness, insisting he felt only respect and gratitude for his time there, despite admitting the chapter had ended sooner than he expected.

Pereira said: “Today marks the end of my journey as head coach of Nottingham Forest. I want to say a sincere thank you to everyone connected with this incredible football club.

“Although this decision came as a complete surprise to me and without any warning, I fully respect the club’s right to make the decisions it believes are best for its future. Naturally, I am disappointed and saddened. I truly believed in what we were building together, and I leave with a sense of pride in everything we achieved over the past months.

“Together, we enjoyed a memorable end to the season. We secured the club’s Premier League status, reached the semi-finals of the Europa League, and created moments that will stay with me forever. Most importantly, I saw a group of players grow in confidence, belief and togetherness.

“I would like to thank my coaching staff, the players, everyone behind the scenes, and especially the supporters. From my first day, your passion, loyalty and unwavering support made me feel incredibly welcome. You were with us through every challenge and every success, and I will always be grateful for that.

“I leave Nottingham Forest with no bitterness or resentment — only respect, gratitude and wonderful memories. Football is full of unexpected moments, and while this chapter has ended sooner than I expected, I will always look back on my time here with pride and affection.

“I wish the players, the staff, the supporters and everyone at Nottingham Forest every success in the future. This is a special club, and I sincerely hope it continues to grow and achieve great things. Thank you for everything, Vitor Pereira.”