Morgan Gibbs-White stars as Nottingham Forest beat Notts County 2-0 in Glasner’s first friendly

Morgan Gibbs-White set up Forest’s opening goal as Nottingham Forest kicked off Oliver Glasner’s reign with a 2-0 friendly win at Notts County on 20 July 2026.

The midfielder’s quick feet and vision released Igor Jesus for the first strike, while Dilane Bakwa’s cross set up Arnaud Kalimuendo’s header. Forest kept a clean sheet and showed the shape Glasner wants to build around.

What happened in Forest’s first friendly under Glasner?

Forest opened Glasner’s tenure with a controlled friendly victory. Gibbs-White played a key role in the opening goal, slipping a pass to Jesus who slotted home. Bakwa then whipped in the cross for Kalimuendo to head in. Glasner switched to a back three and kept the same shape after the break.

The clean sheet capped a tidy display. Glasner praised the training-ground patterns that produced both goals. Academy prospect Grady McDonnell caught the eye, while Omari Hutchinson tested the keeper without scoring.

Why Morgan Gibbs-White’s role matters for Forest

With Elliot Anderson gone to Manchester City for £116 million, Forest’s midfield needs rebuilding. Gibbs-White’s link-up play and ability to release runners gives Glasner a ready-made option. James McAtee played deeper and looked comfortable alongside Yates.

Free-agent Xaver Schlager is in line to sign, and a second bid for Lucas Bergvall is expected after a £38 million offer was rejected. The January loan of Kalimuendo to Eintracht Frankfurt carried a purchase option, but the German club now want a lower fee.

What comes next for Forest after the friendly?

Glasner will now assess his squad over the coming weeks. The back three and shape looked promising, but the transfer market will dictate how quickly Forest can push on.

Schlager’s arrival would add steel, while Bergvall could still arrive if a deal is struck. The January window remains a chance to add depth, but Forest must move fast.

**Source:** Nottingham Post Live