The complicated character of ‘Mr Marinakis’ poses one Nottingham Forest question

The Man Who Owns Nottingham Forest: A King's Gamble

Morgan Gibbs-White pledged his future to Nottingham Forest. But in a peculiar twist, it wasn’t just the club he was committed to – it was Evangelos Marinakis, the man who owns it.

In an interview where Gibbs-White repeatedly referred to “Mr Marinakis,” his words painted a picture of a powerful influence. “Mr Marinakis is the main reason for that,” Gibbs-White stated when asked about the club's ambitious culture. "So thank you to Mr Marinakis for believing in me.”

The unusual public display was indicative of a complex relationship between owner and player, one built on both admiration and an undeniable dependence.

Just weeks before his contract renewal, Gibbs-White looked set to leave Forest. Tottenham had seemingly activated his £60m release clause, even organizing a medical for the England international. However, Forest retaliated by accusing Spurs of illegally approaching the midfielder – going directly to the player before contacting the club. The move was seen as indicative of how many clubs perceive Marinakis and his Forest: difficult to deal with.

“I will never let anybody from any other team try to get a player from us or make us do something that we don’t agree with - especially with guys that belong to our family,” Marinakis said, outlining his unwavering commitment to keeping his players.

Marinakis's methods are as unconventional as they are effective. He bleeds Nottingham Forest red, attending matches regularly and greeting players like a father figure. His passion for the club is undeniable, something reflected in the results. Under his ownership, Forest has risen from the brink of League One to European football.

But Marinakis’s past casts a long shadow. He's faced accusations ranging from match-fixing to involvement in drug trafficking and sports violence. While he was cleared of all charges, the controversies continue to follow him. This is a man who has lived both within the shadows and under the spotlight, his image forever intertwined with controversy and success.

The question remains: can this unique "all guns blazing" approach to ownership truly be sustainable? Can Marinakis continue to defy expectations and lead Forest towards continued glory while navigating a complex web of accusations and legal battles? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain – Evangelos Marinakis is not your average football club owner.