Sean Dyche has never been one to shy away from bold opinions, but his latest comments have truly set the football world ablaze—particularly among Nottingham Forest’s fiercest rivals. The new Nottingham Forest boss, who has been known for his no-nonsense attitude and brutally honest approach to football, has reportedly made remarks that have not gone down well with the supporters of Derby County, Leicester City, and Leeds United—the three clubs who share some of the most intense rivalries with Forest.
During a recent media appearance, Dyche was asked about Forest’s rivalries and how he views the historic tension between these Midlands and Yorkshire clubs. Rather than giving a diplomatic answer, Dyche went all in—praising Forest while seemingly belittling their long-time adversaries. It didn’t take long for his comments to spread across social media, and now the reaction from rival fans has been nothing short of explosive.
According to reports, Dyche said something along the lines of: “You can talk about rivalries all you want, but in terms of stature, history, and true football heritage, Nottingham Forest are on a completely different level. Some clubs like Derby, Leicester, and Leeds might shout the loudest, but history speaks for itself. Forest have done what those clubs can only dream of.”
That single statement has ignited a storm across the football landscape. Fans of Derby County, who share one of English football’s most bitter rivalries with Forest, were quick to hit back. “Who does he think he is?” one furious Derby fan wrote online. “We might be in a different division now, but our rivalry is real. You don’t just dismiss Derby like that.” Another supporter labeled Dyche’s words as “disrespectful” and accused him of “trying to stir the pot before even settling in at the City Ground.”
Leicester City fans also weighed in, particularly offended by Dyche’s comparison of historical achievements. While Forest can boast two European Cups, Leicester’s Premier League triumph in 2016 remains one of modern football’s most miraculous achievements. “We won the Premier League against all odds,” one Foxes fan commented. “If Dyche wants to talk about history, maybe he should remember that modern football matters too.”
Leeds United supporters didn’t hold back either. Known for their passionate fanbase and historic pride, many Leeds fans felt Dyche’s tone was unnecessarily provocative. “You don’t come for Leeds and expect no backlash,” wrote one angry fan. “Forest might have their European glory from the past, but we’re Leeds United—one of the biggest clubs in England. Dyche has just painted a target on his back.”
Despite the outrage, Nottingham Forest supporters have rallied behind their new manager. To them, Dyche’s confidence and belief in Forest’s stature are exactly what the club has been missing in recent years. One Forest fan wrote on social media, “He’s absolutely right! We’ve got real history—European champions, legendary managers, and proper football heritage. Let them be mad; we’re focusing on getting back to where we belong.” Another fan added, “Sean Dyche has just become one of us. He’s defending our club with pride.”
Dyche’s comments, whether intentional or not, have reignited old rivalries that were already deeply rooted in English football tradition. The East Midlands rivalry between Forest, Derby, and Leicester has always been fierce, but this might have added fresh fuel to an already raging fire. Even the Leeds connection, which dates back to the Brian Clough era when Clough famously managed both clubs, has been rekindled by Dyche’s remarks.
Some football pundits have suggested that Dyche’s words could be a deliberate psychological move—an attempt to solidify himself with the Forest faithful while creating an “us versus them” mentality to unite the dressing room and the supporters. One analyst said, “Sean Dyche is clever. He knows what he’s doing. By praising Forest’s legacy and downplaying the rivals, he’s strengthening the club’s identity. It’s the kind of siege mentality great managers use to motivate their teams.”
However, others believe Dyche has gone too far and unnecessarily provoked rival fans before even facing them on the pitch. “He’s made himself a villain in three cities in one week,” joked another commentator. “Derby, Leicester, and Leeds fans will be waiting for the chance to beat Forest now more than ever.”
The next time Forest face any of those rival clubs, the atmosphere is guaranteed to be electric—and possibly hostile. Every word Dyche said will be remembered, every chant will reference his comments, and every away crowd will be desperate to see him silenced.
Whether this controversy works in his favor or backfires spectacularly remains to be seen. What’s certain, however, is that Sean Dyche has made himself a central figure in one of English football’s most heated regional rivalries. Love him or hate him, his words have reminded everyone that the spirit of competition, pride, and passion still burns fiercely in the Midlands—and Sean Dyche is right at the center of it.
For Nottingham Forest fans, he’s the fiery leader they’ve longed for. For Derby, Leicester, and Leeds supporters, he’s now public enemy number one. But for neutral observers, one thing is clear—Sean Dyche has just turned up the temperature in English football’s rivalry drama, and it’s only going to get hotter from here.
