Glasner's new project kicks off at home: prediction for Nottingham Forest vs Leeds United
The opening round clash of the English Premier League between Nottingham Forest and Leeds United will take place on August 22, 2026, at the City Ground in Nottingham. The Tricky Trees are turning a new page with Oliver Glasner at the helm, while Daniel Farke's side will look to carry their impressive summer form into the official season.
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Nottingham Forest: Glasner expected to boost efficiency
Last season was a rollercoaster for Nottingham: the club cycled through Nuno Espírito Santo, Ange Postecoglou, Sean Dyche, and Vítor Pereira. The latter managed to steady the ship and keep Forest in the Premier League, but this summer the club has put its faith in Oliver Glasner, who previously led Crystal Palace to FA Cup, Super Cup, and Conference League glory.
The departure of Elliot Anderson to Manchester City is a significant loss, and his replacement is set to be Xaver Schlager, a player Glasner knows well. The new manager is also expected to spark progress up front: in nine of their last ten home games last season, Forest either failed to score or managed just a single goal.
Leeds United: strong summer ahead of a tricky away day
Daniel Farke’s men finished last season on a high and looked solid in their preparations for the new campaign. Over the summer, Leeds defeated Liverpool 4-2 and Sunderland 1-0, drew 1-1 with Manchester United, and wrapped up their dress rehearsal by thrashing Augsburg 4-0.
However, the visitors arrive for the opener with a less than ideal squad. Gabriel Gudmundsson and Willy Gnonto are sidelined with injuries, while Noah Okafor is still regaining match fitness after the World Cup. The number one spot is expected to go to James Trafford, newly signed from Manchester City.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Nottingham Forest have won their last four home games against Leeds.
- Both teams have scored in six of their last eight head-to-head meetings.
- Forest are unbeaten in seven of their last nine matches against Leeds - four wins and three draws.
Home advantage could tip the scales: prediction for Nottingham Forest vs Leeds United
Leeds enjoyed a strong preseason and are capable of troubling the hosts, especially if they maintain the intensity shown in their recent friendlies. However, their defense was vulnerable last season, and personnel issues make this first away trip even tougher.
Forest are reinvigorated with Glasner's arrival, and their home record against Leeds clearly favors the hosts. In what promises to be an open, action-packed match, the slight edge should go to the Tricky Trees.
