Nottingham Forest can confirm that Joe Worrall has joined Burnley in a permanent deal.
The 27-year-old’s departure brings an end to his 14-year association with the Club, having joined the Forest Academy in 2011.
A boyhood Forest fan, Worrall departs having made 226 appearances for the Club in all competitions, playing an integral part in Forest’s rise from the Championship to the Premier League.
The defender made his professional debut for Forest against Reading in October 2016, scoring his first goal against Bolton Wanderers in December 2017.
Upon his return from a loan spell with Rangers in the 2018/19 season, Worrall became a hugely important figure for Forest as the Club returned to the Premier League in 2022.
He played 46 times in Forest’s promotion-winning campaign, wearing the captain’s armband at Wembley Stadium as The Reds memorably beat Huddersfield Town. His performances were recognised across the league as he was named in the EFL Championship team of the season.
Worrall captained Forest in the Premier League, making 37 appearances in the top-flight across two seasons.
The Club is proud to have a long-standing record, dating back to 1941, in which a Forest Academy graduate has been a part of the matchday squad for every game. The staff throughout the Club work tirelessly to create an environment in which such a record can continue. Nevertheless, for the young players to make the jump, a level of talent, discipline, hard-work and professionalism is required. A Nottingham boy, Worrall epitomises these qualities and has left his mark at Nottingham Forest.
From rising through the Academy and leading his team out at Wembley, to a year later being a part of the side that achieved the memorable win against Arsenal to secure Premier League status, and everything in between, Worrall has achieved so much at the Club.
Chief Football Officer, Ross Wilson said: “Joe is a model professional, someone who has always represented the Club in the best possible way. He has achieved a lot at Nottingham Forest and has been a true leadership figure within the group.
“While he will be missed around the place, we wish him the very best for his exciting new challenge. Joe will always be welcomed back at The City Ground and will go down as one of the Club's most successful Academy graduates.
“From a personal standpoint it has been a pleasure to work with him.”
As Joe now departs for a new chapter at Burnley, everyone at Nottingham Forest would like to thank him for his immense contribution during his time at the Club and wishes him every success for the future.