Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood has signed a new contract that will keep him at the City Ground until 2027. The New Zealand international has been in scintillating form this season, netting 14 goals in 22 Premier League appearances to help Forest climb to third in the standings.
Wood initially joined Forest on loan from Newcastle United in January 2023, completing a permanent transfer in June of the same year. In just two years, he has become Forest’s leading Premier League goalscorer, surpassing Bryan Roy’s record of 24 goals in December.
Speaking about the extension, the 33-year-old expressed his excitement about continuing his journey with the club.
“I’m very excited and very happy to have it completed and done,” Wood said. “I saw the ambition when I first arrived. The owner and his family have big dreams for this club, and they’ve backed it for years. Playing in front of our incredible fans is always a pleasure. Here’s to a few more years together.”
Wood’s previous deal was set to expire at the end of this season, but his new contract reflects the club’s commitment to rewarding his remarkable contributions.
A Role Model On and Off the Pitch
Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis praised Wood’s impact, describing him as a symbol of the club’s ethos.
“He epitomises everything it means to wear the Garibaldi red — hard work, fighting spirit, and the attitude to never give up. He is a winner and a role model for everyone at the club. We are thrilled to reward his dedication,” Marinakis said.
Wood was named Forest’s first-ever Premier League Player of the Month in November, becoming the first player from New Zealand to achieve the honor. His performances have inspired the team in their bid to return to European competition for the first time since 1995-96.
The Nuno Espirito Santo Effect
Wood’s form has flourished under the guidance of manager Nuno Espirito Santo, who was appointed in December 2023. Remarkably, 25 of Wood’s 29 Premier League goals for Forest have come during Nuno’s tenure.
This season, Forest are unbeaten in eight league games and remain the only team to beat leaders Liverpool, securing a memorable 1-0 victory at Anfield in September and drawing 1-1 in the return fixture.
Currently six points behind Liverpool and six points clear of fifth-placed Manchester City, Forest are well-positioned in the race for a Champions League berth.
Wood’s extension follows a similar deal signed earlier this month by centre-back Murillo, as Forest continue to build a squad capable of challenging for silverware and European glory.
A Legacy in the Making
Chris Wood’s 30 goals in 65 appearances across all competitions have cemented his status as a fan favorite and a vital cog in Forest’s resurgence. With his new contract in place, the striker is poised to add to his legacy at the City Ground as Forest aim to rekindle the glory days of their European dominance in 1979 and 1980.
Fans will undoubtedly be eager to see what the future holds for Wood and Nottingham Forest as they push for a return to Europe’s elite stage.
