One particularly successful aspect of Nottingham Forest's previous campaign in which they secured European football for the first time in 30 years was the relationship struck up in the heart of the defence between Nikola Milenkovic and Murillo.
Brazilian Murillo joined in the summer of 2023 during the tenure of Steve Cooper, before the Reds moved to bring in Serbian international Milenkovic from Fiorentina, where he had played regularly for seven seasons prior to earning himself a move to the City Ground.
The pair hit it off immediately as Forest, under Nuno Espirito Santo, forged a platform in the early weeks of the campaign which they would build on over the course of the 38-game season; there were early signs of the blossoming partnership in the rearguard at Anfield, and Milenkovic and Murillo continued their form and chemistry as the season wore on.
With the help of full-backs Ola Aina and Neco Williams, and goalkeeper Matz Sels, they helped Forest to successive shut-outs on home soil against Arsenal and Manchester City at the end of winter as the supporters began to realise that European football in some form was becoming a likelihood.
Indeed the stats didn't lie; only champions Liverpool had more clean sheets last season than Forest's 13, a staggering effort considering the lack of top flight experience the pair had between them prior to forming ties in pre-season 2024. Now, though, they head into the new Premier League campaign having established themselves as among the best pairs around.
It's been a frustrating pre-season, for sure, in front of goal; Chris Wood's strike in a defeat to Fulham was the only goal registered across the course of the seven friendlies, but simultaneously, they managed five shut-outs and, rather ominously, Milenkovic and Murillo were imperious in the home friendly double header last week before the big kick off.
As Milenkovic points out, their respective traits and attributes are unique but that means that they complement one another when it comes to defending their box and - certainly in the case of Milenkovic - attacking the opposition's from set-pieces.
"All these games we've played together help us to understand better each other," Milenkovic said of his partner. "It helps us to know each other better, how he thinks, how I think in some situations. Every game helps us to improve our connection, and I think Murillo is a top player who has also big potential to improve. Already, though, he's a very, very good player.
"We have different characteristics, what we're comfortable with - we complete each other, which is so important in football. What he has I don't have, what I have maybe he doesn't have. This is very positive in football and we use this strength on the pitch."
How many more signings must Forest make? Have your say HERE
Get your Nottingham Forest pre-season supplement
Nottingham Forest pre-season supplement
It promises to be an exciting season ahead for Nottingham Forest.
The 2024/25 campaign proved to be a special one for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side. But it could get even better for the Reds this time around.
European football will be coming to the City Ground for the first time in three decades. It will be a whole new continental adventure for Forest, and they will be eager to give it a good go.
It all means there is a lot to look forward to this coming season. With that in mind, we have produced our Nottingham Forest 2025/26 Kick-Off special, our brilliant guide to the new season.
Our reporter Sarah Clapson will waltz you through what to expect from the Reds this coming season, turn the spotlight on Nuno, run the rule over one of Forest’s key men and take a look at the club’s transfer business. Our club-by-club guide will give you the lowdown on Forest’s Premier League rivals, while you will also be able to test your knowledge with our Premier League quiz.
We will also take a look at the summer’s biggest signings in the division, check out each ground and study the managers - new and old. With a full fixture list, Nottingham Forest 2025/26 Kick-Off will get you in perfect match shape in time for the Reds’ opening day curtain-raiser at home to Brentford on August 17.
Priced £3.50, pre-order your copy now from our online store and get it delivered direct to your door.