Vitor Pereira does the unthinkable and leaves shock player out of matchday squad vs FC Midtjylland, and fans think its personal

Vitor Pereira does the unthinkable and leaves shock player out of matchday squad vs FC Midtjylland, and fans think its personal

In a bold and controversial call that has sent shockwaves through the Nottingham Forest fanbase, head coach Vitor Pereira has once again opted to start Brazilian striker Igor Jesus up front for tonight’s crucial UEFA Europa League Round of 16 first-leg tie against FC Midtjylland at the City Ground.

The decision comes amid ongoing speculation over the future of January arrival Lorenzo Lucca, who has been completely omitted from the matchday squad for the third consecutive game. What began as whispers of a minor injury has evolved into a clear disciplinary stance from Pereira, who previously criticized Lucca’s “lack of conviction” in training sessions. Fans have labeled the snub “personal,” with many believing the Italian’s raw potential is being unfairly overlooked in favor of squad harmony.

Enter Igor Jesus, the £10m summer signing from Botafogo who has quickly become a fan favorite. The 25-year-old Brazilian, wearing the No. 19 shirt, has been in fine form in Europe—joint-top scorer in the competition with seven goals earlier in the campaign and delivering clutch moments, including a super-sub strike that ended a 30-year wait for an away European win. His clinical finishing, intelligent movement, and work rate have earned Pereira’s trust, even as Forest battle on multiple fronts.

Pereira addressed the selection in his pre-match press conference: “Igor shows every day what it means to be committed. He trains with intensity, fights for the team, and delivers when it matters. That’s the standard we demand—no exceptions.” With Morgan Gibbs-White pulling strings in midfield and Omari Hutchinson adding flair, Jesus is expected to spearhead an attack that must break down a physical, set-piece-strong Midtjylland side.

Supporters remain divided. While some praise Pereira’s no-nonsense approach—”Igor’s goals speak louder than drama”—others vent frustration online: “Lucca deserves a chance; this feels like ego over talent.” With Fulham looming in the Premier League on Sunday and Forest hovering near the drop zone, tonight’s result could define the season.

As kick-off approaches at 8pm, all eyes are on Jesus to justify his manager’s faith and silence the doubters. In Pereira’s world, attitude trumps hype—and Igor Jesus embodies exactly that.