Nottingham Forest have officially confirmed the appointment of Oliver Glasner as their new head coach, with reports suggesting that the Austrian tactician will become one of the Premier League’s highest-earning managers, receiving £13 million per year at the City Ground.

Glasner’s arrival marks a significant move for Forest, as he takes over from Vitor Pereira. The 51-year-old Austrian, who has built a strong reputation as one of Europe’s most progressive coaches, joins after a successful spell at Crystal Palace, where he guided the club to victories in the FA Cup, Community Shield, and the Conference League.

The Forest management have shown immense faith in their new boss by offering a lucrative financial package. According to The Sun, Glasner’s £13 million-a-year deal makes him the highest-paid manager in the club’s history and places him among the top earners in English football.

Glasner comes with an impressive record of success on the European stage. He led Eintracht Frankfurt to Europa League triumph in 2022 and quickly made his mark in English football. His proven track record was a major factor behind Forest’s decision, as the club aims to establish itself as a force in both domestic and continental competitions after a period of managerial instability.

Speaking to the club’s official website following his appointment, Glasner said: “I’m thrilled to join Nottingham Forest as head coach. From my first discussions with the owner and leadership team, it was clear they have a strong vision for this club and complete trust in me and my staff to build a successful future together. That faith, along with the potential I see in the squad, convinced me to take on this exciting challenge.”

He added: “Nottingham Forest is a club of immense tradition and history, a two-time European Champion with a passionate fan base. Our goal is to build a team that can take the club to the next level and make our supporters proud. My immediate focus is on meeting the players and staff as we begin pre-season. I’m eager to get started and will work tirelessly to bring success to this great club.”

Club owner Evangelos Marinakis expressed his enthusiasm, noting: “Oliver is a proven winner. He has achieved success through his leadership, personality, and the attractive football his teams play.”

Glasner’s appointment comes after the dramatic departure of Vitor Pereira, who was dismissed under controversial circumstances. Despite guiding Forest to a Europa League semi-final and securing Premier League survival, Pereira was reportedly sacked via an email just two minutes before a key termination clause in his contract was due to expire at midnight. The decision left the Portuguese manager stunned as he prepared for pre-season.

Following his exit, Pereira commented: “Although this decision surprised me completely and came without any warning, I respect the club’s right to act in what it believes is its best interest. Naturally, I am disappointed and saddened. I was proud of what we accomplished together and leave with a sense of pride in our achievements.”

Glasner’s arrival represents Forest’s fifth managerial change in the past season, reflecting the club’s relentless ambition to achieve success. His first challenge will be against Leeds United on the opening weekend of the Premier League season, followed by a highly anticipated return to Selhurst Park to face former club Crystal Palace on October 26. The Austrian coach aims to build a side that embodies the spirit of Forest’s passionate supporters.

Owner Marinakis remains optimistic about the future, stating: “Our ambition is not just to compete – it is to win, to challenge for major honours, and to create a football club that our fans can be proud of for many years.” With Glasner’s tactical acumen and the club’s financial commitment, Nottingham Forest appear poised to make a strong statement in the upcoming campaign.