In a surprise move, Premier League high-fliers Nottingham Forest have appointed former Roma CEO Lina Souloukou as their new chief executive officer. The Greek executive, who resigned from Roma just three months ago, will officially take the reins at Forest on January 5th.
A Familiar Face for Forest’s Owner
Souloukou is no stranger to Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis, having previously served as CEO of his Greek club Olympiacos for four years. Marinakis, who also owns Portuguese side Rio Ave, expressed his delight at reuniting with Souloukou.
“We are delighted to welcome Lina Souloukou to our team. Her proven track record in football management and her passion and commitment align perfectly with our vision for Nottingham Forest and the wider group as we continue to push for greater success.”
– Evangelos Marinakis, Nottingham Forest owner
Tumultuous End at Roma
Souloukou’s appointment comes just months after her abrupt exit from Serie A club Roma. She resigned as CEO after only four days following the controversial sacking of coach Daniele De Rossi, which sparked outrage among the club’s supporters.
Strategic Role at Soaring Forest
At Nottingham Forest, Souloukou will be tasked with overseeing the strategic development of a club riding high in the Premier League. Despite being tipped by many for relegation, Forest currently sit fourth in the table, trailing only Liverpool, Chelsea, and league-leaders Arsenal.
Souloukou shared her enthusiasm for the challenge ahead:
“I am honoured to rejoin Mr Marinakis’ football family. The opportunity to drive forward the success of Nottingham Forest and contribute to the wider group is an exciting challenge. I look forward to starting work in the new year to deliver on our shared ambitions.”
– Lina Souloukou, incoming Nottingham Forest CEO
Filling a Vacant Role
Forest had been without a chief executive since Dane Murphy departed at the beginning of 2023. Souloukou’s appointment fills that void with an experienced football administrator as the club aims to establish itself as a Premier League mainstay.
Exceeding Expectations On and Off the Pitch
Nottingham Forest’s fairy-tale return to the top flight after a 23-year absence has been the story of the Premier League season so far. From propping up the table after eight games to gate-crashing the top four at Christmas, it’s been a remarkable turnaround under talented coach Steve Cooper.
Now, with Souloukou’s appointment, Forest appear to be laying the off-field foundations to match their on-field success. The ambition is clear as this sleeping giant of English football seeks to re-establish itself among the elite.
The coming months will reveal whether Lina Souloukou can provide the steady leadership to keep Nottingham Forest’s revival on track. But with her pedigree and the unwavering backing of Evangelos Marinakis, Forest fans have every reason to believe the good times are here to stay.
