*🚨OLIVER GLASNER NAMES THE “TOP YOUNGSTER” AT NOTTINGHAM FOREST IMPRESSING BEHIND THE SCENES: JAIR CUNHA*
*Nottingham.* Oliver Glasner has lifted the lid on one of Nottingham Forest’s best-kept secrets. The Forest boss called Brazilian defender Jair Cunha a “top youngster” and revealed the 20-year-old has been impressing “behind the scenes” at the City Ground.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Glasner said fans should expect to see more of the centre-back soon after months of quiet development.
*”He is ready to push”*
Glasner didn’t sign Cunha, but he’s clearly taken notice since arriving.
“Jair is a top youngster,” Glasner said. “What he does in training every day is really good. Physically he is a monster, but technically he is also very calm. He is learning the Premier League, learning English, learning our way. Now he is ready to push for minutes.”
Cunha joined Forest from Botafogo last summer for around £12m and was immediately viewed as one for the future. With competition from Murillo, Nikola Milenković and Willy Boly, game time has been limited.
But the work hasn’t stopped. Coaches have praised his attitude, and Glasner confirmed Cunha has been one of the standout performers in U21 games and training matches.
“He is 1.93m, quick, good on the ball, and he is aggressive in duels,” Glasner added. “In Brazil they play with a lot of confidence. We are teaching him when to take risks and when to be simple. That progress is clear.”
*Why Forest are excited*
Forest paid big money for Cunha because of his ceiling. At Botafogo he was already a regular starter at 19 and was called into Brazil’s U20 setup. Scouts compared his profile to Gleison Bremer — tall, left-footed, comfortable stepping out with the ball.
The Premier League jump is tough, but Glasner believes the environment at Forest is helping. “He watches Murillo every day. He sees how Milenković prepares. That is the best school for him. And he is humble. He wants to learn.”
With a busy schedule of league and cup games coming, rotation will be key. Glasner hinted Cunha could get his chance in the Carabao Cup and as a bench option in the league.
*Fans want a glimpse*
Forest supporters have been asking about Cunha on social media since pre-season clips showed him pinging long passes and dominating aerials.
“Glasner rates him, that’s enough for me,” one fan wrote. “Give the kid a chance.”
For now, Cunha remains patient. But with Glasner publicly backing him as a “top youngster”, that first-team breakthrough at the City Ground feels a lot closer.
Forest kick off again on Saturday. Don’t be surprised if No.35 gets the nod.
*Word count: ∼396*
