Igor Jesus is a Nottingham Forest player today, but he is still inspiring young forwards in Brazil.
That influence became clear as ESPN published an interview with Botafogo forward Kadir. The 18-year-old Panamanian scored twice on his professional debut for Jesus’ former club.
The outlet detailed how Kadir came off the bench late in the first half with Botafogo 2-1 down to Sport at the Nilton Santos.
He came off the bench and changed the match. After 13 minutes of the second half, he controlled a pass from former Forest midfielder Danilo before finishing low to equalise. The winner arrived in the final action of the game, when the teenager found the top corner to complete the comeback.
After the match, Kadir explained that he has modelled his game on Igor Jesus for some time. He told ESPN: “I have always watched Igor Jesus. When I arrived here in Brazil in 2024, Botafogo were winning everything and I saw him as a reference. Before matches, I always watch his videos, his plays, how he controls the ball, how he holds it up.”
He then revealed that the Nottingham Forest striker contacted him straight after the final whistle. “When the match ended, he called me to congratulate me. It was very emotional for me,” Kadir said. “He is an idol for me and for Botafogo as well. I am very happy with this moment.”
The story keeps Nottingham Forest tied to the Brazilian conversation, as a player now in England continues to shape the next wave of talent at his former club.
The connection also reflects how highly Igor Jesus is still regarded, even after his move to Europe.
