Awoniyi loses beloved manager as Nottingham Forest sack Steve Cooper

Taiwo Awoniyi and Nottingham Forest coach Steeve Cooper | Imago

Awoniyi loses beloved manager as Nottingham Forest sack Steve Cooper

Ayoola Kelechi 21:35 - 19.12.2023

Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi will have to say goodbye to a beloved friend as Nottingham Forest decide to part ways with Steve Cooper

Despite the team keeping their heads above the relegation waters, Nottingham Forest announced today that manager Steve Cooper has been relieved of his duties as the head coach, ending a tenure that spanned over two years.

Cooper played a pivotal role in Forest's remarkable journey back to the Premier League, leaving an indelible mark on the club's history.

His departure from Nottingham Forest will certainly be a blow to Super Eagles star Taiwo Awoniyi, who only recently, identified Cooper as one of the most influential coaches in his career.

Steve Cooper’s final chapter at Nottingham Forest

Steve Cooper's association with Nottingham Forest began in September 2021 when he took on the head coach role. His impact was immediate, galvanising Forest's ascent up the Championship table and orchestrating a memorable playoff victory over Huddersfield Town at Wembley Stadium in May 2022.

Steve Cooper and Taiwo Awoniyi | Imago
Steve Cooper and Taiwo Awoniyi | Imago

Cooper continued to manage the team through 55 matches in the Premier League, steering Forest through the challenges of top-flight football, earning a surprise stay in the top division at his first try with the club. His dedication and strategic prowess played a crucial role in securing Forest's place among England's football elite.

Cooper gets warm farewell from Nottingham Forest

Evangelos Marinakis, the owner of Nottingham Forest, expressed gratitude for Cooper's contributions. Marinakis acknowledged Cooper's role in guiding Forest back to the Premier League, describing it as an iconic moment in the club's storied history. 

The owner thanked Cooper for his dedication, commitment, and the profound connection he established with supporters and the city of Nottingham.

Steve Cooper provides update on Taiwo Awoniyi | Imago
Steve Cooper provides update on Taiwo Awoniyi | Imago

In a statement released by the club, Marinakis said, “Everyone at Nottingham Forest would like to thank Steve for his superb contribution to our football club. His achievement in guiding Forest back to the Premier League will undoubtedly remain an iconic moment in the Club’s history.

“We thank Steve for his dedication and commitment during his time with us, as well as the incredible connection he forged with our supporters and the city of Nottingham.

“Steve will always remain a friend of the Club and will forever be welcome at The City Ground. We wish him well in his future endeavours.”

Nottingham Forest looking forward to a future without Cooper

The club announced that a further statement regarding the appointment of a new head coach would be made in due course. Nottingham Forest supporters now await news on the individual who will step into the role and continue the journey that Steve Cooper began.

Nottingham Forest relieved Steve Cooper of his duties as Head coach | Imago
Nottingham Forest relieved Steve Cooper of his duties as Head coach | Imago

As Nottingham Forest bids farewell to Steve Cooper, the chapter closes on a period marked by success and resurgence. Cooper's legacy includes a triumphant return to the Premier League, and his contributions will be remembered as a defining chapter in the club's history.

 The Nottingham Forest faithful now eagerly anticipate the next phase under new leadership, as the club looks ahead to the challenges and opportunities that lie on the horizon.

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