Igor Jesus

Igor Jesus Maciel da Cruz



Date of Birth: 25th February 2001



Current Club: Nottingham Forest.

Previous Clubs: Botafogo, Shabab Al-Ahli, Coritiba.

Loan Clubs: N/A.





International: Brazil 5 caps 1 goal.

Trophies Won: Brazilian League 2024. Copa Libertadores 2023/24. UAE Pro League 2022/23. UAE Supercup 2020/21, 2023/24. UAE League Cup 2020/21.



Jesus is one of those forwards with an excellent work ethic, he puts himself about well, putting defenders under pressure every chance he gets. The opposition backline find it very difficult to get controlled possession, as he rarely gives them the time and space to do so. He has a lot of desire to work for the team, which is something Dyche no doubt loves about him.



However, he is more than just a workhorse, rushing around when the opposition have the ball, he also works hard when his team has the ball. He provides an out ball, does not allow himself to be bullied and holds the ball up well. His excellent technique allows him to take hold of the ball under pressure from the defence and lay it off.



His weakness though is a big one - his finishing. Jesus is just not a great goalscorer, he is more of a target man to play off and he does need players around him, or a partner up front, to make the most of his hold up play. He would be ideal in a front two or playing with wide attackers bombing in behind him, similar to how Firmino played for Liverpool under Klopp, but not as deep.



While Firmino liked to drop off and get the ball in space, giving the opposition defence a decision as to whether to follow him or leave him, Jesus plays on the centre-backs. He prefers to pin them behind him and then work from there. To really step up though, he needs to improve on his finishing, as he lacks a goal threat right now, which is a major problem.





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