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Nuno says players ‘on fire’ to face Chelsea with Champions League qualification on the line

Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo says players are “on fire to play” Chelsea as they attempt to secure their place in the Champions League.

This weekend marks the final match-day of the 2024/25 Premier League season, and Nottinghan Forest have European ambitions on their mind.

If Forest beat Chelsea and Aston Villa drop points to Manchester United, Forest will return to Europe’s premier tournament for the first time in more than forty years.

When asked about the pressure on players for what some consider to be the biggest game of the season, Nuno said: “It’s a normal week for everybody in terms of approach.

“We have to prepare the game like we usually do. Nothing changes.

“And one of the parts that we love is that we are enjoying preparing [for] a big match. So why not enjoy it?”

Discussing the motivation of his squad, Nuno said: “You just don’t have to worry about that because it’s already there.

“The players are on fire to play the game.

“The message is to stick to the tasks, recognise that [Chelsea] is a tough team to play against, and enjoy playing the game like we always do.”

Nottingham Forest faced Chelsea at Stamford Bridge last October, with the sides playing out a 1-1 draw in West London.

But Nuno is hoping the home atmosphere will spur Forest on to a significant victory, despite the club only having a 50 per cent win rate at home this season.

He said: “The City Ground’s going to help us. It’s been doing this [since] the beginning of the season, since last season, helping us a lot.

“Loud is the best.”

Forest ended last season sitting 17th in the Premier League – just one place above the relegation spots – with just 32 points.

The club has more than doubled its points tally this season in an unprecedented turn of fortune.

Reflecting on the success of the season, Nuno said: “The players have been committed and that is why they deserve this final day, fighting for something that can be huge for us.

“The improvement of the players, the improvement of the team, that was our main concern and objective [this season].

“We know that when we focus on the players, that reflects on the team, and the team reflects on the club.

“So what makes me really proud? That I think our players are getting better.”

On a less serious note, Nuno divulged his approach to staying relaxed during intense match preparation.

The Forest gaffer first picked up the hand-pan two years ago, and said playing it helps him stay calm.

“[The sound is] beautiful. I have it in my car, if you want to listen to it?” he joked.

Nottingham Forest host Chelsea this Sunday, with kick-off scheduled for 4pm.

Newcastle face Everton at St James’ Park, while Aston Villa are away at Old Trafford facing Manchester United.