Leroy Sané Completes Stunning Move to Nottingham Forest, Takes Number 10 Shirt
Nottingham, June 19, 2025 — In what will go down as one of the most audacious and exciting transfers in recent English football history, Nottingham Forest have completed the signing of German international Leroy Sané. The 29-year-old winger joins the East Midlands club on a three-year deal after departing Bayern Munich, bringing world-class pedigree and electrifying talent to the City Ground. As part of the announcement, Sané will wear the prestigious number 10 shirt, a symbol of the creative burden he is expected to shoulder.
Forest, who narrowly avoided relegation in the 2024/25 Premier League campaign, are making bold statements in the transfer market, and none louder than the acquisition of Sané — a Champions League winner, multiple-time Bundesliga and Premier League champion, and one of the most skillful wingers in European football over the last decade.
A Transfer Nobody Saw Coming
Sané’s move to Forest shocked the football world. With interest reported from top clubs in France, Italy, and even Saudi Arabia, few expected the winger to return to England — and even fewer believed he’d join a club outside the traditional top six.
But Forest, under the leadership of head coach Nuno Espírito Santo and ambitious ownership, made a convincing pitch. Reports suggest Sané was swayed by the promise of being the focal point of a long-term project, the allure of Premier League football, and the club’s enthusiastic fanbase.
“I’m thrilled to be here,” Sané said in his first official interview as a Forest player. “This is a club with tradition, a passionate support, and big ambitions. I believe in the vision and I want to bring success back to this historic ground.”
The Number 10 Role
Taking the number 10 shirt is no small gesture. At Nottingham Forest, it’s a number worn by past greats — a jersey symbolic of flair, leadership, and inspiration. Sané’s decision to take it reinforces the club’s belief in him as a transformational figure.
Known for his blistering pace, close control, and ability to create and score goals, Sané is expected to operate in a free attacking role under Nuno, with freedom to drift between the flanks and central areas. His versatility will be a major asset as Forest reshape their offensive structure.
Coach Nuno welcomed his new star:
“Leroy is a special player — he brings experience, intelligence, and an edge that we need. He’s played at the highest level and still has so much to offer. We’re excited to give him a platform where he can be himself and help elevate the team.”
Reaction Across Football
Social media was set alight within minutes of the transfer announcement. Forest fans flooded platforms with joy and disbelief, hailing the signing as the club’s most significant since their promotion to the Premier League in 2022.
One fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
“Leroy Sané in a Forest shirt? Are we dreaming? This is blockbuster stuff!”
Another added:
“Nottingham Forest signing world-class talent — the rest of the league better pay attention.”
Football pundits across Europe called it “a coup,” noting that Forest’s proactive recruitment strategy signals their desire to not just survive in the Premier League, but compete.
A New Chapter for Sané
Sané’s career has spanned three major clubs — Schalke 04, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich — and he has earned over 60 caps for the German national team. Despite injuries disrupting parts of his career, his ability to dominate games when fully fit remains unquestioned.
Now, he arrives at Forest with a point to prove and a legacy to build in England once again. He joins a team rich in young talent like Morgan Gibbs-White, Anthony Elanga, and Danilo, and is expected to serve as a leader both on and off the pitch.
Forest’s technical director, Filippo Giraldi, said:
“This isn’t just a marquee signing — it’s a strategic one. Leroy brings experience, hunger, and quality. He will help raise the standards around the club.”
What Comes Next
Sané is set to link up with the squad during pre-season training in July, and fans can expect his debut in a friendly against Olympique Lyon at the City Ground. His first competitive appearance will likely be in Forest’s opening Premier League fixture against Aston Villa in early August.
As Forest look to consolidate their Premier League status and aim for a top-half finish, Leroy Sané — draped in red, wearing number 10 — represents both a thrilling present and a bold bet on the future.
For a club that has always dreamed big, this transfer shows Nottingham Forest are ready to match their ambition with action.
