Morgan Gibbs-White Named Nottingham Forest Captain in Club Briefing: A New Era Begins at the City Ground
In a significant move that signals a new chapter for Nottingham Forest, midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White has been officially named the new club captain during an internal club briefing held earlier today at the City Ground. The 25-year-old, known for his flair, work rate, and leadership qualities, takes over the captaincy role ahead of the 2025/26 season as Forest look to assert themselves as a stable Premier League side.
The Announcement
The appointment was made in a closed-door meeting attended by players, coaching staff, and club executives. Head coach Nuno Espírito Santo, who has worked closely with Gibbs-White since his Wolves days, made the announcement personally. According to sources present during the briefing, the atmosphere was one of collective support, with the squad erupting in applause as the news was delivered.
“Morgan is the heart of this team – on and off the pitch,” Nuno reportedly said. “His energy, passion, and maturity at such a young age make him the perfect leader as we build for the future.”
The Journey So Far
Gibbs-White joined Forest in the summer of 2022 from Wolverhampton Wanderers for a then-club-record fee. At the time, some questioned the hefty price tag, but it didn’t take long for the England youth international to silence critics. In his debut season, he played a vital role in helping Forest avoid relegation, contributing goals, assists, and tireless pressing that epitomized Forest’s survival fight.
Since then, he’s developed into one of the most influential attacking midfielders in the league, earning praise for his versatility, football IQ, and ability to lift teammates’ performances. Last season, he led the club in assists and was second in goals behind striker Taiwo Awoniyi, once again proving his central importance.
️ Gibbs-White Reacts
Shortly after the announcement, Gibbs-White addressed the squad and staff in an emotional speech, thanking them for their trust and expressing his pride.
“I’ve grown a lot at this club,” he said. “To be given this responsibility is an honor I don’t take lightly. We’ve had our battles, but I believe in this group, in this club, and in the fans. I’m ready to lead, and I’ll give everything I’ve got – every single match, every single day.”
In a social media post that followed the meeting, Gibbs-White added, “Wearing the armband is more than a title – it’s a responsibility to fight for this badge, these fans, and my brothers in red. Let’s go!”
⚽ What This Means for Forest
Gibbs-White’s elevation to captain represents more than a symbolic gesture. It’s a clear signal from Forest’s management that they intend to build the club’s identity around young, hungry talent with leadership qualities. With veterans like Joe Worrall and Scott McKenna taking on mentorship roles and new signings expected in the coming weeks, the leadership reshuffle sets the tone for a refreshed dressing room dynamic.
Club CEO Ross Wilson commented:
“We are in a new phase. This club is about ambition, development, and unity. Morgan embodies those values and will be a central figure in our plans moving forward.”
Leadership Qualities on Display
Gibbs-White has long been praised for his maturity beyond his years. Coaches, teammates, and fans alike have pointed to his vocal presence on the pitch, his positive influence in the locker room, and his ability to shoulder pressure in key moments – attributes that led to his selection despite still being in his mid-20s.
Former Forest captain Joe Worrall, now expected to take on a supporting leadership role, expressed full support for the new skipper:
“Morgan has earned this. He leads by example, and he’s respected by every player in the dressing room. I’ll back him 100%.”
Looking Ahead
As Forest gear up for a challenging Premier League campaign, Gibbs-White’s appointment will likely energize both the squad and the fanbase. Pre-season training begins next week, with friendly fixtures against European sides lined up before the Premier League kicks off in August.
The club is also expected to announce a few key signings in the coming days, with rumors linking Forest to a central midfielder and a right-back. With Gibbs-White now the face of the squad, any new arrivals will be joining a side that has clearly defined leadership and ambition.
Quick Facts – Morgan Gibbs-White:
- Age: 25
- Position: Attacking Midfielder
- Joined Forest: August 2022
- Premier League Goals (2024/25): 8
- Assists (2024/25): 10
- Nationality: English
- Youth Career: Wolverhampton Wanderers
Final Thoughts
Nottingham Forest’s decision to hand the captain’s armband to Morgan Gibbs-White is a move full of promise and intent. As the club prepares for another season in England’s top flight, they do so with a dynamic, driven leader at the helm – one who has already proven his loyalty and quality time and again. The Forest faithful will be watching closely, but if his past performances are anything to go by, Gibbs-White is more than ready for this next challenge.
