Nottingham Forest supporters are demanding the club keep Arnaud Kalimuendo this summer after the striker’s goal in the 3-0 pre-season win over Blackburn Rovers on Wednesday.
The Tricky Trees, sitting 18th in the Premier League with zero points so far, eased past Championship opposition at the City Ground. Kalimuendo, who joined Forest for £26 million last summer, had managed just nine Premier League appearances without a goal before his loan spell at Eintracht Frankfurt in the second half of the 2025-26 campaign.
What happened against Blackburn Rovers?
Forest dominated the friendly against Blackburn Rovers, who kick off their own season in under two weeks. Kalimuendo was one of the standout performers, opening the scoring with a first-time finish midway through the second half to make it 2-0.
The striker’s composure and movement caught the eye, and fans took to X to demand Forest resist any temptation to sell. Many had expected Kalimuendo to leave this window after his difficult start to life at the City Ground.
Why Forest fans now want Kalimuendo to stay
Despite a miserable first six months at Forest, supporters have warmed to the idea of giving the 24-year-old another chance. His goal against Blackburn Rovers has shifted perceptions, with fans arguing his potential outweighs his early struggles.
Forest, who face Manchester United at home on 20 February 2027, have been linked with several strikers this summer. But Kalimuendo’s performance has reignited debate over whether the club should gamble on a player who could still deliver.
Who could Forest sign instead?
Forest have been heavily linked with Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta, a 29-year-old France international. Mick Brown, the former Manchester United chief scout, told Football Insider that a strong offer from Forest could sway Mateta, who has one year left on his contract at Selhurst Park.
Mateta nearly joined AC Milan in January and is unlikely to sign a new deal at Palace despite an offer being on the table for months. His arrival would add another option up front as Forest look to improve their attacking options.
League standing: 18th in Premier League, 0 pts.
