Uncompromising defender Michael Forbes traded life in rural Northern Ireland for the bustling surroundings of East London in the summer of 2020 when he penned a two-year Scholarship deal at the Academy of Football.

Forbes assumed the role of U18s captain in 2021/22, and made his first U23s start in December 2021, helping his side to a 4-2 win over Crystal Palace in South London. The season would end with Forbes making 23 outings for the U18s and three for the U23s, all in Premier League 2 action. The defender would also sign his first professional contract with the Club in May 2022.

Forbes would be a regular in the heart of defence for the development team at the start of 2022/23, and would be involved in the senior team squad for the UEFA Europa Conference League Group B clash away to FCSB in November 2022. Unfortunately, a run of injuries ruled the youngster out during the second half of the season, ending Forbes' campaign with 19 appearances in all competitions.

A productive 2023/24 season saw Forbes feature 14 times for the U21s, including wearing the captain's armband in the Bristol Street Motors Trophy round of 16 defeat to Wycombe Wanderers, put pen to paper on a new deal with the Hammers until June 2026, and make his senior international debut for Northern Ireland against Finland.

In July 2024, he joined EFL League One outfit Bristol Rovers on a season-long loan deal.