Turbulence at the City Ground — Why Arnaud Kalimuendo’s Big Move to Nottingham Forest Could Already Be Unraveling.

In a move that had fans at the Nottingham Forest’s City Ground buzzing, 23-year-old French striker Arnaud Kalimuendo arrived in August on a five-year contract, having joined from Stade Rennais for a fee reported at around £25-26 million. At the time, it seemed like a statement of ambition from Forest as they prepared for a major campaign: Premier League survival, deeper domestic challenge and a return to European competition.

But only a few months in, there are growing murmurs that Kalimuendo’s stay may not be as settled as initially promised. The reasons appear multi-layered — tactical fit, fierce competition up front, managerial shifts and perhaps a mismatch of expectations.

The Setup: A Bright Arrival

Kalimuendo had enjoyed a breakout season in Ligue 1, netting 18 goals in 34 appearances for Rennes.  Forest snatched him up in a summer spree that also brought in James McAtee and Omari Hutchinson — signalling a seismic shift in the club’s ambitions.  In his unveiling, Kalimuendo declared his excitement at joining a club “with great history” and stated he was ready for the challenge of the Premier League and the City Ground faithful.

The Cracks Appear: Why Things Might Be Off Course

1. Intense Squad Competition

Forest now boast a glut of attacking options: established strikers, wide players and emerging talent all vying for minutes. For a young forward stepping into a big move, integration is never guaranteed. Some fans on forums already raised the question: with so many top players ahead of him, will Kalimuendo get enough time to settle?

2. Tactical Mis-Match and Immediate Impact

Despite his reputation, Kalimuendo hasn’t yet announced himself as the undisputed lead striker. The demands of adapting to the Premier League’s pace, physicality and a potentially new system under Nuno Espírito Santo mean patience may be required — something that isn’t always afforded in high-stakes seasons.

3. Managerial & Strategic Flux

Forest’s summer was marked by heavy investment and lofty goals, but also by underlying instability. Reports have suggested tension behind the scenes between the coaching staff and ownership, which can trickle down to players, especially new signings expected to deliver quickly. In such an environment, a player who struggles to hit the ground running can find themselves vulnerable to exit speculation.

4. Rumours of Departure Already Circulating

While no official confirmation has surfaced about Kalimuendo’s departure, the combination of factors above makes the situation ripe for speculation. If his game time is limited or his impact muted, both club and player might be tempted to explore alternatives sooner rather than later.

What Happens Next?

For Kalimuendo, the coming weeks will be crucial. He must stake his claim — whether through Europa League rotation, domestic cups or bursts of form in the Premier League — to silence doubters and secure his place in Forest’s plans.

For Nottingham Forest, the challenge will be to manage the expectations tied to their summer spending and ensure that the squad harmony isn’t compromised. Letting a marquee younger player leave prematurely could send a negative message just as their ambitions grow.

Kalimuendo’s story may yet turn out to be one of adaptation and eventual success — but as things stand, his future at the City Ground looks less set in stone than his signing once suggested. The club, and the player, are both under pressure to prove that this bold move was the right one.