Murillo hails Pereira after ‘problems’ with past Nottingham Forest managers

Guardian Sport

by Ben Fisher in Istanbul

February 20, 2026

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Nottingham Forest defender Murillo has expressed optimism about the arrival of new head coach Vítor Pereira, calling him "the light at the end of the tunnel" after a challenging period with previous managers. The Brazilian highlighted that the squad had faced issues under former bosses such as Oliver Postecoglou and Sean Dyche. Pereira made an immediate impact, leading Forest to a convincing 3-0 victory in their Europa League playoff first-leg match against Fenerbahce, where Murillo scored the opening goal. Despite only having three training sessions before the game, Pereira created "magic" that transformed the team's spirit and performance. The 57-year-old Portuguese coach, who previously rescued Wolves during a difficult season, has signed a contract extending until 2027, signaling Forest's commitment to his leadership. This marks Forest's fourth managerial change of the season, reflecting the club's recent struggles on and off the field. Murillo praised Pereira's ability to instill confidence and unity within the squad, which had been underperforming before his arrival. The match against Fenerbahce showcased Forest's potential under Pereira. Goals from Murillo, who also received a standing ovation after being substituted late in the game, and efforts from other players demonstrated a renewed focus and determination. The victory not only boosted the team's morale but also positioned them strongly for the second leg of the playoff. This development matters to sports fans as it highlights the importance of strong leadership in turning around underperforming teams. Pereira's quick impact suggests that Forest is on the right track, with a coach who can inspire both players and supporters. The club's ability to bounce back under new management could set a precedent for other struggling teams looking to rebuild their fortunes.

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/20/2026