Morgan Gibbs-White hails Nottingham Forest identity as Vitor Pereira era begins with Istanbul statement

• Forest secure commanding Europa League advantage with 3-0 win at Fenerbahce
• Captain praises clarity, energy and collective belief under new manager
• Confidence boost arrives ahead of crucial Premier League test against Liverpool

Nottingham Forest captain Morgan Gibbs-White said his side showed a clear and renewed sense of identity as the Vitor Pereira era began in emphatic fashion with a 3-0 Europa League victory over Fenerbahce in Istanbul.

Pereira, appointed as Forest fourth manager of a turbulent campaign, could hardly have asked for a more convincing opening night. A composed and clinical display in a hostile environment gave Forest a decisive advantage in the playoff round first leg, placing them firmly in control of the tie.

Goals from Murillo, Igor Jesus and Gibbs-White sealed a performance that combined discipline, intensity and attacking confidence. It marked a striking contrast to recent weeks and hinted at a fresh direction for a squad that has struggled for consistency.

Speaking after the match, Gibbs-White was keen to highlight the immediate impact of the new coaching staff.

“I felt like we had a real identity out there today,” he told TNT Sports. “His message to us is that we are going to have a clear way of playing and defending as a team.

“He and his staff have brought a really positive energy into the group and we have all bought into what he wants straight away. That is the most important thing, buying into each other and understanding each other.”

The Forest captain added that the players are already seeing signs of progress and cohesion.

“I think we have a little bit of that already and we showed it out there in abundance. Now it is about learning from each other, staying together and taking it game by game.”

The result leaves Forest on the brink of a place in the last sixteen, where a tie against Real Betis or Midtjylland awaits, provided they avoid a dramatic reversal in the return leg at the City Ground.

Beyond Europe, Pereira primary task remains guiding Forest to Premier League safety. This assured display offered timely encouragement ahead of Sunday home fixture against Liverpool.

“You want to enjoy every moment as a player,” Gibbs-White said. “It can be difficult because games come around so quickly, but nights like this give you a lift. We can enjoy it and then prepare properly for Liverpool.

“We have been through a difficult time. Confidence is everything and tonight will boost that. We just have to stay together and aim to be the most complete team we can be.”

Pereira echoed his captain sentiments, praising both the technical quality and mentality of his players.

“The quality of the players is what I liked most,” he said. “I asked them to express themselves on the pitch and they did it. They need results, but they also need to enjoy the game.

“If they enjoy the way they play, they can reach a high level. They just need organisation and confidence. Of course I am confident. We will go match by match and try to win the next one. It will always be difficult, but this is a very good start.”

For a club searching for stability and direction, this performance felt like more than just a strong result. It offered a glimpse of renewed belief, structure and purpose, qualities that Forest will need in abundance as the season enters its decisive phase.

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.

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