Botafogo's Igor Jesus in action with Paris St Germain's Willian Pacho. (REUTERS/Daniel Cole)
Whether the 2025 Club World Cup has been a true success remains up for debate.
Revamped by FIFA into a 32-team spectacle with a billion-dollar prize pool, the tournament has brought with it a mix of thrilling matches, chaotic scheduling, and logistical challenges.
It’s delivered a much-needed fix of competitive football during a mostly quiet summer—outside of the Women’s Euros—and offered a pre-season stage for clubs to showcase their latest signings, like Chelsea’s Liam Delap.
But the format hasn’t come without drawbacks. Weather delays caused by heatwaves and thunderstorms have wreaked havoc on match timings, while the extensive travel between host cities has left managers voicing frustration over what was supposed to be a break before the gruelling 2025/26 campaign.
Still, amid the drama, one of the tournament’s biggest positives has been the global spotlight shining on lesser-known talents—none brighter than Botafogo’s Igor Jesus.
Forest Close to Landing Jesus
The 24-year-old striker has been one of the Club World Cup’s most exciting discoveries. He scored twice before Botafogo’s eventual Round of 16 exit: a clinical finish in a 2-1 win over MLS outfit Seattle Sounders, followed by a stunning match-winner in the upset of the tournament—a 1-0 victory over European champions Paris Saint-Germain.
That moment alone earned him front-page coverage in Brazil and the attention of scouts across Europe.
According to The Telegraph, Nottingham Forest are now on the verge of securing Jesus for a reported £10 million fee.
Talks are said to be in the final stages, with the player expected to arrive for pre-season next month following a short break.
Jesus, nicknamed “Little Frog”, has already bagged three goals in Brazil’s Série A this season and is widely seen as a player on the rise. But beyond his on-pitch ability, he’s also caught attention for his unique goal celebration—pressing his hands together near his chest and then thrusting them forward like he’s summoning energy, a clear homage to Goku from Dragon Ball Z.
Forest fans will be hoping he brings that same explosive energy to the Premier League—and that his anime-inspired celebration becomes a regular sight at the City Ground.
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