Ange Postecoglou stops for fan selfie after being sacked in the wake of Nottingham Forest's defeat to Chelsea

Moments after learning of his sacking, Postecoglou stunned fans by stopping to take selfies and chat from his car outside the City Ground. The Australian coach had just been dismissed following Nottingham Forest's 3-0 home defeat to Chelsea - a result that capped off a winless eight-game spell in charge. But instead of retreating into silence or anger, the 59-year-old smiled warmly for photographs, waved to fans, and thanked them for their support despite becoming the shortest-serving permanent manager in Premier League history.

Eyewitnesses described how Postecoglou lingered near the stadium, greeting young fans and exchanging words of encouragement before driving away. The moment quickly went viral on social media, with Forest supporters praising his humility and grace under pressure. Many commented that his gesture showed the character of a manager who refused to let disappointment affect his respect for the club and its fans.

Inside the stadium, the atmosphere had been tense as Forest's owner Evangelos Marinakis reportedly left his seat midway through the match in frustration. Less than 20 minutes after full-time, the club confirmed Postecoglou's dismissal, ending a brief and turbulent chapter that never truly got off the ground. But his dignified reaction — smiling through adversity with the fans — became the lasting image of his time in Nottingham.

Postecoglous swift dismissal highlights Forest's ongoing instability under Marinakis. He became the club's third permanent manager to lose his job in just under two years, as Forest struggle to find consistency despite heavy investment in the playing squad. His appointment was intended to usher in a more progressive, attacking brand of football, but results never matched the ambition.

The hierarchy are now back to square one, searching for a new leader capable of halting their slide toward the relegation zone. Marco Silva has emerged as a top target, though the Fulham boss' £8 million ($10.7m) release clause complicates matters. Alternatives like Sean Dyche are being considered, with reports of 'advanced talks' with the former Burnley and Everton boss. Whoever takes the role faces the challenge of restoring belief in a squad shaken by constant change and poor results.

The decision to sack Postecoglou came after Forest's fourth consecutive defeat, a run that left them deep in early-season trouble. The 3-0 loss to Chelsea was the final straw for Marinakis, who reportedly made up his mind before the match had even ended. While Forest's attack occasionally showed flashes of fluidity, their defense conceded 15 goals in eight games, exposing tactical and organizational flaws that Postecoglou could not correct in time.

Postecoglou's departure marks another difficult chapter in his Premier League adventure after his previous stint at Tottenham ended in May, despite winning the Europa League. He had hoped to rebuild his reputation in Nottingham and prove his adaptability, but his team never settled into the rhythm his style demands. Still, his composure and fan-friendly demeanor in the aftermath of his dismissal drew widespread admiration from supporters and pundits alike.

Forest now face yet another managerial rebuild as they attempt to salvage their season before the relegation fight deepens. With the international break approaching, Marinakis is expected to move quickly to appoint a replacement capable of steadying the team's form and morale. A fractured dressing room and the pressure of restoring a sense of identity at a restless club awaits.

For Postecoglou, the immediate future remains uncertain, but his reputation for integrity and leadership ensures he will remain in demand. Offers from abroad could materialise, particularly from leagues where his attacking philosophy and people-first approach are valued. After two high-profile dismissals in quick succession, a period of reflection might follow - but few doubt that he will ultimately return to management stronger.

While his eight-game spell at Forest yielded no victories, Postecoglou's final moments as manager told a different story. His willingness to engage with fans even after being sacked showed the class and perspective that have defined his career. For those who saw it, the sight of 'Big Ange' smiling in a selfie outside the City Ground will remain a symbol of dignity amid football's relentless chaos.