Nottingham Forest got it seriously wrong with Danilo exit, he’s turned into a monster
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Credit: Getty Images Mon 1 June 2026 9:00, UK Nottingham Forest fans have welcomed countless footballers to the City Ground since their promotion to the Premier League, and Danilo was one of them.For those who can’t put a face to the name, the young midfielder, often being played out of position on the wing, arrived in January 2023, playing 62 times before returning to Brazil with Botafogo.He managed six goals and four assists during his two-and-a-half seasons at the City Ground, but he never really settled in, nor did he really get a chance to prove himself in the Premier League.Forest’s transfer chiefs have had some very difficult tasks on their hands over the years, but getting rid of Danilo may have been one of their biggest mistakes, as the 25-year-old continues to prove. 🔄 Nottingham Forest Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on signings, departures, and contract news from the Nottingham Forest boardroom. VISIT THE FOREST TRANSFER HUB Danilo proves Nottingham Forest wrong on the international stageDanilo clearly thrives in South America, notching 11 goals and seven assists in 41 games since signing for Botafogo.
Maybe the Reds just weren’t playing to his strengths. MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES While you can argue that Brazilian football is his level, the former Forest man has now earned three caps for the national team, scoring against both Croatia and Panama.His goal against Panama on Sunday, 31 May, was simply sensational, bringing it under control inside the penalty area, spinning and unleashing a shot, netting Brazil’s sixth goal of the match.Danilo vs PanamaStats [FotMob]Minutes played45Goals1Chances created2Touches36Successful dribbles100% (1/1)Tackles2Ground duels won60% (3/5)It was everything that he was never able to showcase during his days at the City Ground, and it has become clear why Man United and AC Milan are so interested in signing him this summer.Who else has improved since leaving the City Ground?With so many names coming through the doors at the City Ground, it is only natural to make some mistakes with transfers, but some of them might be costly.Lewis O’Brien has certainly found a new home in Wrexham, only making a total of 17 appearances for the club amidst a handful of loan spells, before finally moving away permanently.Arnaud Kalimuendo looks set to leave Forest, just a year after arriving from Rennes.
He has been absolutely brilliant for Eintracht Frankfurt, and looks to be a real danger in the final third.Sean Dyche refused to take advantage of his strengths, though, only really utilising him in the Europa League. Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Nottingham Forest Insider Access Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of the City Ground.