Youssouf Fofana would have transformed Nottingham Forest, new data proves their costly mistake

Fofana has thrived on loan at Sevilla with four goal contributions in seven appearances, highlighting Forest's missed opportunity to strengthen their midfield in the summer.

Youssouf Fofana was linked to Nottingham Forest over the summer as manager Oliver Glasner sought midfield reinforcements, but the club opted against pursuing the 27-year-old after signing Xaver Schlager instead. Fofana joined Sevilla on loan from AC Milan and has since emerged as one of La Liga's standout midfielders this season.

The midfielder has registered four goal contributions in seven appearances for Sevilla, who currently sit fifth in the division. His performance data is exceptional: he ranks in the 96th percentile for assists per 90 (0.49), the 88th percentile for touches in the opposition box per 90 (3.79), and the 79th percentile for both non-penalty xG per 90 (0.15) and successful dribbles per 90 (1.32). He recently delivered two assists in Sevilla's 2-0 win over Osasuna, including a 50-metre ball-carrying run that set up a goal.

Forest are struggling for form and midfield depth this season, with their backup options underperforming. Ibrahim Sangare ranks among the worst Premier League midfielders for pass completion and tackles, while Nicolas Dominguez has made limited impact in his two league appearances. Fofana's ball-carrying and creative abilities could have made a significant difference for Glasner's side.