Gary Neville
Image Credits: SKY SPORTS
Gary Neville has been banned by Nottingham Forest from entering The City Ground for their season-defining clash with Chelsea, in what Sky Sports has called an “unprecedented and unwelcome” move.
The club formally requested that Sky change their commentary team, citing a breakdown in relations following repeated criticism from Neville throughout the season.
The decision stems from several incidents, including a strongly worded social media post by Neville which accused Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis of behaving inappropriately after a 2-2 draw with Leicester.
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“Scandalous from that Forest owner,” Neville wrote on X.
“Nuno should go and negotiate his exit tonight with him!
“The Forest fans, players and manager do not deserve that.”
Forest later claimed Marinakis was reacting to a serious injury concern involving Taiwo Awoniyi, not remonstrating over the result.
They followed up with a pointed statement that, while not naming Neville directly, condemned “baseless and ill-informed outrage” and “fake news online” from public figures.
Sky Sports has since confirmed that Neville will not be involved in Sunday’s coverage, with production moved to its west London HQ.
Though Sky stood by Neville, it’s understood the pundit chose to withdraw from the broadcast as per Daily Mail’s report.
A commentary team will still be present at the stadium.
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The Premier League is aware of the situation, but won’t intervene according to Daily Mail’s report – as it remains within clubs’ rights to restrict who enters their property.
This isn’t the first time Forest have clashed with Neville.
After their 2-0 loss to Everton last month, Neville likened Forest’s public criticism of refereeing decisions to the actions of a “mafia gang”.
Sky later issued an apology, and confirmed that Neville would refrain from using similar language in future.
Despite growing friction, Forest have declined to comment further on the matter.
Gary Neville voices disappointment over Nottingham Forest rejection
Neville took to Instagram earlier this afternoon, stating his disappointment at the matter.
“I think it’s disappointing that a great club like Nottingham Forest have been reduced to making such a decision.
“Whilst they have every right to choose who they let into their own stadium, it’s symptomatic of things that have happened over the last 12 months with the club.
“I wish the coaching staff, players and fans of the club all the best in their quest to achieve Champions League football.”
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