Ange Postecoglou asserts he needs to prove nothing as he begins his Nottingham Forest tenure after a Spurs exit. Despite Tottenham’s struggles, Postecoglou secured a Europa League title. He aims to excite fans with attacking football and replicate his trophy-winning record, starting with a match against Arsenal.
Ange Postecoglou has arrived at Nottingham Forest with a clear message: he's not here to prove anyone wrong. The newly appointed manager, stepping into the role after Nuno Espirito Santo's departure, exuded confidence as he addressed the media, stating emphatically, "I don't have to prove anything to anyone." This marks Postecoglou's return to the Premier League just three months after his controversial exit from Tottenham Hotspur, a period that saw Spurs plummet to a disappointing 17th-place finish.
Despite the underwhelming end to his Tottenham tenure, Postecoglou's legacy includes a significant achievement: ending the club's 17-year trophy drought with a Europa League title victory in May. His initial attacking philosophy was widely praised, but the subsequent struggles led to intense scrutiny, with some questioning his unwavering commitment to high-intensity football as Spurs suffered 22 league defeats. However, Postecoglou remains steadfast in his approach.
"I do like my teams to play exciting football and score goals and get fans excited. I make no apologies about that, that's just the way I am," Postecoglou declared, signaling his intention to bring his trademark brand of attacking football to the City Ground. He even lightheartedly referenced the shift in allegiances, joking about discovering "who the true Ange believers" are as he transitions from Spurs to Forest.
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'Great to be back' - Ange Postecoglou unveiled as new Nottingham Forest manager
The immediate challenge for Postecoglou is preparing Forest for their upcoming match against Arsenal. It's a tough start, but the new boss is eager to implement his vision and make an immediate impact. The fans will be keen to see how quickly Postecoglou can turn things around and instill his attacking philosophy into the team.
Postecoglou also touched upon his impressive track record of winning trophies, particularly in his second season at various clubs. He highlighted his successes in Australia, Japan, and Scotland, where he consistently delivered silverware. When asked about this pattern, Postecoglou cheekily acknowledged the pressure, stating, "I won the double with Celtic in my first year. I may have to [win a trophy this season] to have a second year here."
He further emphasized his unwavering ambition, "I've said already I want to win trophies and that's what I've done my whole career and that's what I want to do here." This clear declaration of intent will undoubtedly resonate with the Forest faithful, who are yearning for success after a turbulent period.
Reflecting on his departure from Tottenham, Postecoglou admitted that he didn't foresee it happening so soon after securing the Europa League title. However, he believes he left a positive mark on the club. "There is no Spurs supporter I come across now who doesn't want to hug me and take me home for dinner," he quipped, underscoring the connection he forged with the fans.
Ultimately, Postecoglou aims to create a lasting legacy at every club he manages. "I love creating things that are lasting. Every club I've been to, I'd like to think I'd be welcome back because I left a mark." With his blend of attacking football, unwavering self-belief, and a proven track record, Ange Postecoglou is determined to make his mark at Nottingham Forest.
As he embarks on this new chapter, Postecoglou's primary focus will be on solidifying the team's defense, improving their consistency, and instilling a winning mentality. He faces a significant challenge in a highly competitive Premier League, but his arrival has injected a sense of optimism and excitement into the club. Whether he can replicate his previous successes and deliver silverware to the City Ground remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Ange Postecoglou is ready to embrace the challenge head-on, proving that he's here to build something special, not to prove anything to anyone.