Ange Postecoglou has already begun reshaping Nottingham Forest’s style, shifting from a counterattacking approach to a more possession-focused, high-tempo game – a change that has already seen him set a new record.
The Australian manager has never shied away from his preferences, always open about the brand of football he likes his teams to play.
But the change has not been seamless. Losses to Arsenal in the Premier League and Swansea City in the Carabao Cup marked a tough start to his tenure.
In his third match, though, there were signs of improvement. The 1-1 draw against Burnley might not have been ideal on paper, but there was plenty for Forest fans to be encouraged by.
Despite that result, Wayne Rooney pointed out that Postecoglou would likely be pleased with how things are developing. And Paul Merson has even drawn comparisons between this Forest side and Postecoglou’s Tottenham team from last season.
The manager’s fingerprints are already visible on Forest’s play style, and recent statistics underline just how much things have changed since he arrived.
Under Nuno Espirito Santo, Forest relied on a more defensive approach, looking to hit teams on the break. Postecoglou has made it clear he wants something different.
The Australian manager prefers his teams to control matches through possession, creating chances by keeping the ball and dictating play. It is a style he has been open about since arriving.
That focus is already starting to show results. In their recent match against Burnley, Forest set a new club record for average possession in a Premier League game.
According to the Premier League, Forest averaged 63.3% possession against Burnley, the highest mark they have reached since their return to the top flight in 2022.
While they did not come away with all three points, it was still a notable positive early in Postecoglou’s time at the club.
This shift is already clear in how they are playing, and there are likely plenty of players who will welcome the change in approach.
Elliot Anderson looks well-suited to Ange Postecoglou’s style of play, as the midfielder thrives when he can get on the ball and influence the game.
He completed more passes than anyone else on the pitch against Burnley, finishing with 99. The 22-year-old also set up two chances and played 19 passes into the final third.
Anderson’s role will be key throughout this season. His ability to keep possession and move the ball efficiently should help Forest maintain control in matches more consistently.
With his first European appearance for Forest coming up on Wednesday night, Anderson will be aiming to carry that same level of performance into a new stage for him at club level.
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