Nottingham Forest have made remarkable steps this season, and growth is clear after only eight games.
Nuno Espirito Santo managed a strong recruitment drive this summer, and the Reds are now ninth in the Premier League table.
On Monday, Crystal Palace were defeated as Forest won its third game of the season, with Chris Wood scoring five goals in eight games in 2024/25.
After that game, Ally McCoist singled out Wood for praise, and Forest must now focus on their trip to Leicester City on Friday.
The secret to Forest’s turnaround isn’t difficult to figure out, since the Reds are now one of the league’s finest defensive teams.
Forest have conceded less goals than Liverpool this season, partly due to a summer signing’s performance.
Nuno Espirito Santo explains what makes Nikola Milenkovic so brilliant.
Milenkovic from Fiorentina was the big summer transfer, costing under £12 million.
He had taken La Viola to two consecutive Europa Conference League finals, but with just one year left on his contract, the Serie A club opted to cash in.
Since joining Forest, he’s made a significant impact on the pitch, and his old teammate Vincent Laurini can’t believe Forest signed Milenkovic.
Espirito Santo has now discussed what makes Milenkovic so outstanding, and it’s no wonder that the head coach is a big fan.
He told Sky Sports, “He is contagious to be around.” This is what makes him so significant to us—his character. He gave us stability, leadership, and aggressiveness.
“Defending involves both physical strength and mental fortitude. You must be relentless. Attackers have a different perspective. One mistake doesn’t signify anything. Back there, you have to concentrate completely. Every minute and every action. Nikola has that.
Milenkovic can make Forest a substantial profit.
Forest will not consider selling Milenkovic just yet, but given his current form, he may see Forest as a stepping stone in his career.
Although he stayed at Fiorentina for many years, he may not be as committed to Forest, especially if the Premier League’s big boys come calling.
On recent form, that won’t take long. Milenkovic has started all but one of Forest’s Premier League games this season and has been an outstanding performer.
He sets a good example, challenges himself, and is extremely stable in the air.
It’s no surprise that Espirito Santo is a tremendous fan, and perhaps the club will resist the urge to trade him for a few more years.
