Mere

Nuno says relationship with Forest owner Marinakis is 'not so good' as rumours of exit grow

Marinkais confronted Nuno Espirito Santo on the pitch late last season
Marinkais confronted Nuno Espirito Santo on the pitch late last seasonJUSTIN TALLIS / AFP
Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo has spoken to the media ahead of this weekend's clash with Crystal Palace.

Forest got their league campaign underway with a superb 3-1 win over Brentford, with two goals from talisman Chris Wood and a debut strike from Dan Ndoye.

Nuno will aim for a similar performance against The Eagles in a game that is overshadowed by rumours that he may be sacked by owner Evangelos Marinakis, with whom he has seemingly severed his relationship.

Relationship with Marinakis fractured

"I always had a very good relationship with the owner. Last season, we were very close and spoke on a daily basis. 

"This season it is not so well (between us), but I always believe that dialogue is important because my concern is the squad and the season we have ahead of us.

"Our relationship has changed, and we are not as close. I think everybody at the club should be together, but this is not the reality." 

Nuno just as confused as fans

When asked on why his relationship with the owner has changed, Nuno did not have an answer and seemed as bewildered as many fans. 

"I don't know exactly, but I'm being honest with you, it is not the same. The reason behind it, I do not know.

"What I said last week or two weeks ago was my concern and why I was worried about where we were going (as a club).  What I said, I said it with respect.

"The reality is that the relationship is not what it used to be. It was a respectful relationship based on trust and sharing opinions, but now it is not so good." 

Fractured beyond repair?

He was also unsure whether the relationship can continue, which will be a worrying sign for supporters who have no problem with Nuno in charge. 

"I hope so but I don't know. That I cannot answer. On my side, I am doing whatever I can to help Forest, my commitment is something (that I see) and I feel it."