Nottingham Forest's £180m summer spending spree has yielded little return so far. The Reds sit 17th in the Premier League, just two points above the relegation zone. Thursday's 1-0 defeat at Braga means they now face a Europa League play-off next month, a stark contrast to last season's seventh-place finish.

Boss Sean Dyche is frustrated, questioning whether fringe signings have proven themselves. Of 13 arrivals, only three have started more than 11 league games. Major signings like James McAtee (£30m) and Arnaud Kalimuendo (£26m) have barely featured, while loans like Douglas Luiz and Oleksandr Zinchenko may be cancelled.

The chaotic start—three managers in months—has disrupted any cohesion. Dyche admits the squad needs time, but survival is now the priority. If Forest stay up, they must learn harsh lessons to avoid becoming a perennial mid-table side. The January window and upcoming fixtures will define their season.