Nottingham Forest can now look forward to the 2025/26 campaign after the fixtures for next season were released.
The Reds begin with a home game against Brentford and play two of their opening three fixtures at the City Ground.
Forest will sign Igor Jesus after the Club World Cup, and the opening fixtures should give him a chance to hit the ground running in the Garibaldi.
The Christmas period in any season often makes or breaks a season and Forest will have to negotiate a more difficult festive period than usual next season, given that the African Cup of Nations will take centre stage.
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Four Nottingham Forest stars will miss five huge matches
Right now, Forest have a number of players who will be heading off on international duty to play for their country at the African Cup of Nations.
Ibrahim Sangare made strides at the beginning and the end of 2024/25 and if he picks up where he left off, he could be a really big absentee.
Ola Aina was praised at the last AFCON, and he will also be heading off around Christmas time to go and represent Nigeria once again.
As one of the club’s most important players, that would represent a serious blow to Nuno Espirito Santo and his plans.
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Right now, Taiwo Awoniyi would also head off to play for Nigeria, but there is a sense that he might be sold by Forest this summer should an offer be forthcoming.
Willy Boly has been offered a new contract by Forest, and if he signs that he will also be out of action for a month or so whilst the tournament is on.
However, the centre-back might not be considered a starter in the team, and perhaps his absence won’t be quite as badly felt.
The Forest fixtures missed by the AFCON contingent
The tournament, which runs from December 21st to January 18th in Morocco, will see many clubs missing their star players.
Forest might feel this more than others, however, particularly if Sangare picks up where he left off during last season.
Opponent H/A
Fulham A
Manchester City H
Everton H
Aston VIlla A
Arsenal H
Games missed by Forest players away on AFCON duty
The squad depth needs to be in the thoughts of Espirito Santo during the window, and the hope will be that the team can be well-stacked in all areas across the pitch.
It’s never ideal when a national team tournament takes place during the season, but with plenty of time to plan ahead, Forest can’t use it as an excuse when the time comes.