As the 2026-27 Premier League season approaches, Nottingham Forest is undergoing a significant tactical shift under the leadership of new manager Oliver Glasner. Following a 16th-place finish in the previous campaign, the club is moving toward the 3-4-2-1 formation that Glasner previously utilized during his tenure at Crystal Palace.

While the transition to a new tactical system is expected to require an adjustment period, early indicators from pre-season matches have been described as positive. A primary focus for the team’s development is the integration of three high-quality center-backs, who are intended to serve as the defensive foundation for Glasner’s tactical strategy. Experts and writers are currently projecting a mid-table finish for the club, with an average prediction of 11th place for the upcoming season. The success of the campaign will likely depend on how quickly the squad adapts to the new formation and whether the defensive core can stabilize the team’s performance throughout the year.