Ange Postecoglou has been sacked by Nottingham Forest just 39 days after taking charge, but the Greek Australian showed trademark composure and humility in his farewell to fans.
Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis dismissed Postecoglou less than 20 minutes after the club’s 3-0 home defeat to Chelsea, their fourth straight loss in all competitions.
The decision came after Postecoglou failed to secure a win in eight matches since replacing Nuno Espirito Santo on September 9.
Despite the shock move, Postecoglou stayed at City Ground long after full-time, taking photos and speaking with young supporters before driving away, even pulling over twice to interact with fans.
Admirers praised the gesture online, calling it “class” and describing Postecoglou as “a one off” who “does things his way.”
Former Socceroo Craig Foster criticised Forest’s decision as “ridiculous,” saying, “A proven team builder with success in Europe appointed to change the football, then surprise when everything does not successfully change in just one month? Crazy stuff.”
Ex-teammate Mark Bosnich said he wasn’t surprised by the sacking, noting Postecoglou’s attacking philosophy didn’t fit Forest’s current squad.
“He didn’t have the luxury of time or a transfer window,” Bosnich told SEN. “Right now, the EPL is not the place for him… but other opportunities in Europe will arise.”
The dismissal marks Postecoglou’s second Premier League exit in less than a year, following his departure from Tottenham, leaving his next move uncertain.