The build-up to the 2024/25 campaign starts today for Nottingham Forest as they take on Chesterfield in their first friendly of the summer.
Head coach Nuno Espirito Santo previously admitted it was tough being appointed midway through last term as it meant he was denied a pre-season to get to know his squad. The Portuguese will therefore be looking to make the most of having that opportunity now.
The Reds want to push on in the Premier League when it kicks off next month, and to do that Nuno has a few things he needs to work on. NottinghamshireLive takes a look at some of the issues he will need to address before the serious action begins.
Strongest XI
It took Nuno time to figure out his best team after he took charge last December. Injuries and absences did not help his cause, but there was also a bit of chopping and changing at times.
Certain players and specific formations will always suit particular games, of course. But Forest benefitted from some consistency in team selection towards the end of last term, so using friendlies to forge an idea of his strongest line-up will be helpful for Nuno.
He has some new players to take into account and has lost others. He will want to use pre-season to take a close look at summer signings Carlos Miguel, Elliot Anderson and Eric da Silva Moreira to see where they fit in.
Nuno spoke towards the end of last season about needing to have options. He wants to have selection headaches and finish the transfer window with strength in depth. Games such as today are a chance to build fitness, but also an opportunity to try different formations and see who works best where.
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