Igor Jesus has made it clear he expects more from himself at Nottingham Forest, despite an impressive first season which brought 21 goal contributions in 55 appearances.
The 25-year-old also helped Forest reach the Europa League semi-finals, establishing himself quickly after arriving from Botafogo. That apparently isn’t enough for him.
Speaking exclusively to ESPN Brazil, Igor Jesus explained that he believes there is considerably more to come.
“I know that’s not enough for me. I know how far I can go,” he said.
Brazilian reports during the summer revealed Forest rejected approaches from Tottenham, Porto and Juventus for the forward during the transfer window.
The club clearly believe there is more to come as well.
Guardiola praise still means plenty
Igor Jesus received a notable endorsement during his first season in England. Pep Guardiola praised the Brazilian following a meeting with Forest, highlighting his ability to win his individual battles.
Months later, those comments are still providing some extra motivation.
“I’m happy to receive praise like that, even more so from a manager who has won the Premier League many times and has so much experience in football,” Igor Jesus told ESPN.
“I always want to be doing my best so I can help my team and keep raising my level.”
The forward now wants those performances for Forest to take him back into the Brazil squad.
He has five senior caps, with one goal and an assist in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Carlo Ancelotti ultimately left him out of Brazil’s final squad for this summer’s tournament. Playing at a World Cup remains one of his targets.
“It’s everyone’s dream,” he said. “I know it’s a little difficult to get over all of that, but the players who were there also deserved it.
“There’s already another squad announcement on Thursday. I hope I’m on the list again and can help the national team in the best way possible.”
Forest role may suit what Brazil want
Igor Jesus also offered an interesting assessment of Ancelotti’s attacking preferences.
“The style of play Ancelotti has been using isn’t exactly about a number nine, that guy who stays in the box,” he explained.
“He likes someone who moves around much more than a traditional number nine. Today we have João Pedro, Matheus Cunha, who are players with that characteristic.”
There’s a curious connection with his situation at Forest. Reports from Brazil recently explained that the Premier League club don’t necessarily see Igor Jesus as their reference point up front. And he surely can instead operate in one of the two positions behind that striker.
Judging by his explanation of what Ancelotti wants from his forwards, developing that more mobile role at Forest could also help with his other big objective – getting himself back into the Brazil picture.
