Evangelos Marinakis, the owner of Nottingham Forest and Olympiacos, has once again reinforced his reputation as one of Europe’s most uncompromising football executives. The Greek shipping mogul made a swift managerial change at the Piraeus club, dismissing Jose Luis Mendilibar just three matches into the 2026/27 national season.
This marks a significant milestone for the 59-year-old businessman, who has seen 25 managerial changes during his 16-year reign over various clubs, including Olympiacos, Nottingham Forest, and Portuguese side Rio Ave.
Jose Luis Mendilibar, a seasoned 65-year-old Basque coach, had been at the helm of Olympiacos for two and a half years since February 2024. During his tenure, he etched his name into the club's history by guiding them to their first ever European triumph, winning the UEFA Europa Conference League in 2024. The following season, he led the team to a historic treble, clinching the league title, the Greek Cup, and the Super Cup.
In an official statement, the Greek giants expressed their gratitude towards the Spanish tactician:
“Olympiacos Football Club announces the end of our collaboration with Jose Luis Mendilibar. Together with Jose, we won the UEFA Europa Conference League, fulfilling the dream of every club supporter and all of Greece. He became an integral part of our legendary triumph. Subsequently, our team secured a historic treble in the centenary year of the club, and the coach etched his name in history with golden letters. He will always hold a special place in the club’s pantheon and in the hearts of our red-and-white family. But in football, as in life, cycles must come to an end. What you’ve achieved will remain eternal. Recognition, respect, and love will always accompany you, General. Thank you for everything!”
Despite earning seven points from three opening fixtures in the season, Mendilibar's departure was largely attributed to the failure to advance past the qualification stages for the Champions League. According to reports from Greek media, the frontrunner to take over is former Real Sociedad manager Imanol Alguacil.
Marinakis' persistent changes in managerial position have become characteristic of his clubs. Last season, Nottingham Forest saw four managers take charge at the City Ground: Nuno Espirito Santo, Ange Postecoglou, Sean Dyche, and Vitor Pereira. The latter successfully saved the team from relegation to the Championship. This summer, Pereira was replaced by Oliver Glasner, who is now expected to bring stability to the banks of the River Trent.
