Top News

Dan Ndoye’s strengths that could help the Swiss winger shine in the Premier League with Nottingham Forest and shed the £34m flop label
Arjun Pillai | May 22, 2026 7:16 AM CST

Dan Ndoye continues to make headlines for Switzerland in a World Cup year, but Nottingham Forest are still waiting to see the full potential of the winger in whom they invested £34 million ($46m) during the summer of 2025. Although there has been talk of a possible early exit from the Premier League, Philippe Senderos has explained why his fellow Swiss player still has what it takes to succeed in England.


Confidence dip after promising start at Forest


The competition for the 25-year-old’s signature was intense once it became clear he would leave Serie A club Bologna. Ndoye had played a crucial role in Bologna’s memorable Coppa Italia triumph, scoring the winner in the final against AC Milan to secure the Rossoblu’s first major trophy in 51 years.


Forest eventually won the race to sign the talented forward on a five-year deal. However, reports have suggested that the arrangement could end after only one season, as Ndoye’s form and confidence have waned at the City Ground.


He began well, scoring on the opening weekend of the 2025-26 Premier League season against Brentford and then netting again in a historic European fixture for Forest against Midtjylland on October 2.


Since then, though, his productivity has dried up, at least in domestic competitions. Starting opportunities have become scarce as Ndoye has slipped down the pecking order during a turbulent campaign that has seen four different managers take charge on Trentside.


Despite his struggles at club level, Ndoye has scored three goals in seven international appearances this season and has been named in Switzerland’s squad for the 2026 World Cup. However, doubts remain about whether he can replicate his international form in the Premier League.


What makes Ndoye stand out?


When asked about Ndoye’s best attributes, which could still help him avoid being labelled an expensive flop at Forest, fellow Swiss international Senderos – speaking on behalf of Spreadex Sports – told GOAL: “I think he can be very good in the Premier League.


“He’s excellent in transitions, he runs hard, he’s a true winger with the speed and strength to beat defenders. I believe he can succeed in the Premier League. At Forest, this season has been more about the instability and the number of managerial changes from the start.


“It hasn’t been a stable situation, but if the club finds that stability, they can put him in a better position to perform. He’s got a great personality, he’s eager to learn and adapt, so yes, I can see him making an impact at the World Cup as well.”


Should he stay in the Premier League or return to Serie A?


Ndoye might consider using the upcoming major tournament in North America as a platform to attract new suitors if he decides to leave Nottingham. Several Serie A clubs are already being linked with interest in him.


When asked if he would prefer Ndoye to stay in England and prove himself in the Premier League, which is known for its difficulty and competitiveness, Senderos replied: “That’s right, it takes time.


“The Premier League is ruthless and extremely competitive. I would love to see him continue here, but yes, with his speed and strength, he could also cause plenty of problems in Italy – as he did during his time with Bologna.”


Forest could look to sell in the summer window


At present, with Nottingham Forest having avoided relegation and secured their Premier League status, it appears unlikely that Ndoye will get the consistent playing time he desires in English football.


Manager Vitor Pereira is expected to refresh his squad in the upcoming summer transfer window, with added pace and creativity on the wings a key target. This could mean that Ndoye is allowed to leave if the club decides to reinvest any funds from his sale elsewhere, as Nottingham Forest continue to aim high under the ownership of Evangelos Marinakis.


READ NEXT
Cancel OK