Vitor Pereira sets his sights on the forest and achieves glory on the European stage.

The first leg of the 2025/26 UEFA Europa League semi-finals will kick off, with Nottingham Forest hosting Aston Villa. Vitor Pereira has stated his desire to lead the team back to European glory, emulating the achievements of legend Bryan Clough.

In the earlier Premier League match, Nottingham Forest defeated Sunderland 5-0 with goals from Chris Wood, Gibbs White, Igor Jesus and Elliott Anderson, and successfully faced Aston Villa, managed by Unai Emery, with a victory.

It is worth mentioning that the legendary Brian Clough led Nottingham Forest to the European Cup title in the 1978/79 and 1979/80 seasons.

Nottingham Forest manager Vitor Pereira said, "If we want to make our mark in club history, we have to reach the final and win it. That's certainly our motivation and a great opportunity to move forward."

“This week I went downtown and saw the statue of the club’s great manager. I don’t wish for a statue of myself, but we can imagine his significance and status in this city. He stands in the city center because he accomplished extraordinary things and remains in people’s hearts to this day. This is undoubtedly an inspiration for the new generation. We will do our best to achieve what he did.”

Aston Villa are currently 5th in the Premier League table and are still on their way to Champions League qualification. In addition, Emery has won the Europa League four times during his managerial career.

Vitor Pereira continued, "I hope to stand on such a stage, to enjoy the game, to compete, because I love competition."

“I will be facing a top manager and his team. He is the king of the Europa League because he has four trophies. This will be a huge challenge for us, and we must play with the fighting spirit of true champions.”

Image source: Internet