Nottingham Forest begin their 2026/27 campaign with a home clash against Leeds United. This match will mark a new chapter for the hosts under Oliver Glasner, while Daniel Farke’s side aims to make a strong start following a solid pre-season.
The Reds enjoyed a productive pre-season, winning five out of nine friendly matches. They’ve strengthened their squad with the additions of Usman Diomande, Xaver Schlager, and Stephen Benda, but suffered a blow with the departure of Elliot Anderson to Manchester City.
Leeds also have reasons to be optimistic, finishing their pre-season with four victories, one draw, and just one defeat across six matches. Their squad has been bolstered by the signings of James Trafford, Harry Wilson, Tarik Muharemovic, and Nico Elvedi.
Last season, the teams met at the City Ground, where Nottingham Forest emerged victorious with a 3-1 scoreline. Despite going a goal down, the hosts rallied with goals from Ibrahim Sangare, Morgan Gibbs-White, and Anderson.
Nottingham Forest news
Glasner has minimal injury concerns, as the only confirmed absence is Nicolo Savona, who is recovering from a knee issue.
The hosts are expected to set up in a 3-4-2-1 formation, with Diomande, Nikola Milenkovic, and Murillo forming the back three. Ola Aina and Neco Williams will operate as wing-backs.
In midfield, Schlager and Sangare are likely to feature, providing support to Igor Jesus, who is set to lead the line as the main striker, backed by Gibbs-White and Dan N'doye.
Predicted lineup for Nottingham Forest: Sels — Diomande, Milenkovic, Murillo — Aina, Schlager, Sangare, Neco Williams — Gibbs-White, N'doye — Igor Jesus.
Leeds United news
In contrast, Leeds face a tougher task with a longer list of absentees. Gabriel Gudmundsson is recovering from a hamstring injury, while Wilfried Gnonto, Iliya Gruyev, and Lucas Perry will also miss out.
Farke may opt for a 3-4-3 formation, with Trafford starting in goal, supported by a defensive trio of Joe Rodon, Yaka Biol, and Muharemovic.
In midfield, Anton Stach and Ethan Ampadu are expected to take up central roles. Dominik Calvert-Lewin, who scored 14 goals in the last Premier League season, will spearhead the attack, supported by Wilson and Brenden Aaronson on the flanks.
Predicted lineup for Leeds United: Trafford — Rodon, Biol, Muharemovic — Bogle, Stach, Ampadu, Justin — Wilson, Calvert-Lewin, Aaronson.
Key statistics
Nottingham Forest has won their last four home league matches against Leeds. In fact, they have not lost to this opponent at the City Ground in the top division for 14 games, recording seven wins and seven draws since a defeat in 1971/72.
Leeds, on the other hand, typically make strong starts in the top tier, having lost their opening match only twice in the last 18 seasons.
Keep an eye on Calvert-Lewin, as he has been a dominant presence in the air, competing for headers more than any other player in the league last season — a staggering 317 times.
