“Once a Red, Always a Red”: Emotional Farewell from Morgan Gibbs-White as He Bids Goodbye to Nottingham Forest
By Staff Writer
In a heartfelt and emotional farewell that has left Nottingham Forest supporters teary-eyed and full of pride, Morgan Gibbs-White has officially announced his departure from the club. The dynamic attacking midfielder, who became a fan favorite with his flair, creativity, and undeniable passion, confirmed the news through an emotional social media post and a touching press conference at the City Ground.
The message that echoed from the pitch to the stands, and across social media was clear: “Once a Red, Always a Red.”
A Message From the Heart
“Nottingham Forest gave me a platform to grow, to believe, and to belong,” Gibbs-White said during his farewell message. “From the first day I walked into the dressing room, I felt the love of this city, this club, and these amazing fans. Leaving isn’t easy—it never is when something feels like home. But I’ll carry these memories forever.”
His emotional statement struck a chord with fans who have watched him evolve from a promising loanee into one of the Premier League’s most exciting and tenacious young playmakers. Gibbs-White joined Forest in the summer of 2022 from Wolverhampton Wanderers in a club-record deal and quickly became instrumental in helping Forest solidify their position in the top flight following promotion.
From Rising Star to Forest Hero
Gibbs-White’s journey at Nottingham Forest has been nothing short of transformative—for both the player and the club. In his first full season, he contributed to crucial goals and assists that helped the team escape relegation. His chemistry with forwards, his ability to unlock defenses, and his sheer work rate on and off the ball earned him admiration from fans, pundits, and teammates alike.
One of his most iconic moments came during a 2023 home clash against Liverpool when he scored a stunning long-range effort that secured all three points. The image of him thumping the Forest badge and roaring in front of the Trent End will remain etched in club folklore.
“Morgan was more than a player—he was a leader, a fighter, and someone who genuinely embraced what it meant to play for Nottingham Forest,” said manager Nuno Espírito Santo. “He gave everything, every match. We wish him nothing but the best in his next chapter.”
The Fans’ Favorite
For Forest fans, the departure is bittersweet. While there’s overwhelming gratitude for all that Gibbs-White has given the club, there’s also a deep sense of loss. Social media was flooded with tributes, highlight reels, and emotional farewells from supporters of all ages.
One fan tweeted, “He wore the shirt with pride, with heart, and with fire. Once a Red, Always a Red. Thank you, Morgan.”
The club itself released a touching farewell video that compiled his most iconic moments at the City Ground, narrated by children from the club’s youth academy—highlighting not just his footballing contributions, but his impact on the community and young fans.
A Legacy of Commitment and Class
Off the pitch, Morgan Gibbs-White became deeply involved in Nottingham’s local community. From visiting schools and hospitals to working with mental health awareness campaigns and grassroots football initiatives, he consistently demonstrated maturity and humility far beyond his years.
“He connected with this city,” said club ambassador and former captain Chris Cohen. “He didn’t just show up and play football—he cared. That’s why this goodbye is so tough for everyone.”
He leaves with 17 goals and 21 assists in all competitions across his Forest tenure—numbers that reflect his consistency and influence, but still only scratch the surface of what he brought to the team’s spirit and culture.
What’s Next?
While Gibbs-White has yet to officially confirm his next destination, strong rumors suggest a move to a top-six Premier League club, with Arsenal, Tottenham, and even European giants like Borussia Dortmund reportedly expressing interest. His departure is believed to be amicable and mutually agreed upon, with Forest set to receive a significant transfer fee that could aid in strengthening the squad during the summer window.
“I’m excited for what’s ahead, but nothing will ever replace what I’ve felt here,” he said in closing. “Forest gave me something no other club could—unfiltered love, belief, and a place I could be myself.”
Forest Moving Forward
The club now faces the challenge of filling the void left by one of its most influential players of recent years. While new signings are likely on the horizon, the shoes left behind by Gibbs-White will be hard to fill. However, the spirit he leaves behind—his work ethic, his passion, his connection to the fans—will no doubt continue to inspire future generations of Forest players.
Chairman Evangelos Marinakis released a statement praising Gibbs-White:
“We thank Morgan for his commitment, brilliance, and professionalism. He has left an indelible mark on this football club and will always be welcome back at the City Ground.”
A Farewell, Not a Goodbye
In his final act as a Forest player, Gibbs-White was seen walking alone on the pitch at the City Ground after his last match—taking in the empty stands, touching the goalposts, and pausing by the Forest crest at the center circle. It was a private moment, but one caught by a single fan’s phone camera and shared online—perfectly capturing the raw emotion of a player saying goodbye to something truly meaningful.
As the sun sets on his time at Nottingham Forest, Morgan Gibbs-White departs not with bitterness or controversy, but with class, love, and mutual respect. His farewell isn’t just the end of a chapter—it’s a powerful reminder of what football can mean when heart and talent align.
“Once a Red, Always a Red.”
Not just words. A legacy.
