Nottingham Forest forward Igor Jesus has openly discussed his ambition to play Champions League football while admitting he is unsure if that future lies with the club. The Brazilian's comments come as Forest search for their first win under Oliver Glasner, sitting 15th in the Premier League with one point from two games.
Jesus enjoyed a productive first year in England after joining from Botafogo last summer. He scored 16 goals and provided five assists across 52 appearances in all competitions. His seven goals in the Europa League were a bright spot in the club's European campaign. He has started all three competitive matches this season, but the team has lost to Leeds in the league and cup before drawing 2-2 with Liverpool at Anfield.
Igor Jesus made his feelings clear in an interview. "I am happy that it was my first year in Europe, to be able to be in the biggest championship in the world, but I also believe that I have been improving and I also need to improve," he said. The 22-year-old stated he is happy and content at the City Ground but has a clear career goal. "I don't know if it's going to be here with Nottingham or if it's going to be with another club, which is my goal as well," Jesus added.
He emphasised his daily work to raise his level and believes the team is on the right path under Glasner. The coach has been implementing his ideas well, Jesus noted, and he is sure the team will improve little by little. Forest's current league position shows the scale of the task, sitting five points behind early leaders Manchester City.
The start to the Oliver Glasner era has been challenging. After two Premier League matches, Forest have scored two goals and conceded three, leaving them with a minus-one goal difference. Their next test is a significant one, hosting Tottenham Hotspur at home on Sunday. Spurs currently sit 20th in the table, making it a key early-season fixture for both sides.
The squad is also dealing with injury absences. Key players Nicolò Savona and Ibrahim Sangaré are currently sidelined, which impacts Glasner's options. Fans can check the latest team news and availability on the club's injuries page.
Jesus's comments highlight the tension between player ambition and club project. While he is committed for now, his public targeting of Europe's top club competition sets a clear benchmark. For Forest to retain such talent, progress up the table is essential. The club's standings position will be a constant reference point this season.
Glasner will be focused on immediate results, starting with the Tottenham match. A first victory could build momentum and begin to close the gap to the top. The full schedule of upcoming challenges is available on the fixtures list. Jesus remains a key part of the plan for now, aiming to add to his goal tally this Sunday.
