Nottingham Forest's managerial landscape underwent a dramatic shift following their 3-0 home defeat to Chelsea at the City Ground, which resulted in the sacking of Ange Postecoglou just 39 days into his tenure. Owner Evangelos Marinakis wasted no time, confirming Postecoglou's departure a mere 19 minutes after the final whistle. This swift decision came after Postecoglou failed to secure a single win in his eight games in charge, marking one of the shortest managerial reigns in Premier League history.

The match itself saw an encouraging first half for Forest quickly overshadowed by Chelsea's dominant second-half performance. Within six minutes of the restart, Josh Acheampong headed in his first senior goal, followed by Pedro Neto's free-kick past Matz Sels. Reece James then drilled in a goal from a corner, sealing a crucial three points for Chelsea and dealing Forest their fourth successive defeat across all competitions. This victory was also historic for Chelsea, marking their first time winning three consecutive away league games against Forest and becoming the first Premier League team this season to have two different teenagers (Estevao and Acheampong) score in a single campaign, a feat not seen for the club since 1998-99.

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, who was serving a touchline ban for his own previous misconduct, expressed sympathy for his counterpart after the game. "I didn't speak with Ange. I didn't see him but just said I feel very sorry for him," Maresca stated. He acknowledged the harsh realities of football management: "But we said many times this is a business where if you don't win games, the consequence for all of us is exactly the same. So, sorry for him." Maresca also addressed a red card received by Malo Gusto, Chelsea's fourth of the season, noting that while it was avoidable, it also showed his players' strong desire for a clean sheet. He praised his team's second-half transformation, highlighting their improved control and commitment despite missing several key players.

Postecoglou's brief reign, which began on September 9, made him the 10th permanent manager in the Premier League era to last less than 100 days. His unceremonious exit places him among a list of managers whose tenures were similarly cut short. Notable examples of other short-lived Premier League managerial stints include Sam Allardyce at Leeds United (30 days in 2022-23), Les Reed at Charlton Athletic (40 days in 2006), Javi Gracia at Leeds United (69 days in 2022-23), Rene Meulensteen at Fulham (75 days in 2013-14), Frank De Boer at Crystal Palace (77 days in 2017), Nathan Jones at Southampton (84 days in 2022-23), Quique Sánchez Flores during his second spell at Watford (85 days in 2019), and Bob Bradley at Swansea City (85 days in 2016).

With the managerial position now vacant for the third time this season, Nottingham Forest is actively seeking a replacement. Sources indicate that former Burnley and Everton manager Sean Dyche is a favoured candidate, with discussions reportedly taking place. Dyche has historical connections to Forest, having been a youth player there in the 1980s. However, owner Evangelos Marinakis is also considering Roberto Mancini, the 60-year-old Italian who famously guided Manchester City to an FA Cup in 2011 and their maiden Premier League title in 2012. Mancini, who also led Italy to Euro 2020 glory, has not coached club football since 2018 but brings undeniable experience for a club facing relegation concerns.