The 20-year-old defender impressed against Fenerbahce and could offer a stronger option than Morato when called upon.
Young defender Jair Cunha delivered what might prove to be a defining performance for Nottingham Forest in their Europa League clash with Fenerbahce. Despite the defeat and the concession of a penalty that some felt was harsh, the 20-year-old showed composure, physicality and intelligence beyond his years.
Cunha coped admirably with the quality on show from Fenerbahce, standing firm in situations where more experienced players might have faltered. He cleared danger effectively, tracked runs with discipline and displayed the sort of pace and recovery ability that made him difficult to bypass.
His display was particularly striking when compared with Morato, who has struggled to convince this season. While nobody is suggesting Cunha should displace Murillo or Nikola Milenkovic in the starting lineup, there was enough evidence to argue he offers a more reliable alternative than Morato when opportunities arise.
At 20, development is still ongoing. Errors and learning experiences are inevitable. The penalty he conceded may have been unfortunate, but it did not overshadow an overall performance that highlighted his potential. Playing in Europe for the first time is a significant step, and Cunha handled the occasion with maturity.
Forest’s squad depth in defence has been a talking point, and last night strengthened the argument that Cunha deserves greater consideration. When injuries or rotation create openings, he now appears better equipped to contribute than he has been given credit for.
The handling of his development has also raised questions. Sean Dyche’s reluctance to trust younger options during periods when senior defenders were unavailable remains a source of debate. When Murillo missed time earlier in the season, the opportunity existed to blood Cunha in competitive matches. Instead, Morato remained the preferred choice despite inconsistent performances.
Cunha’s showing against Fenerbahce suggested that decision may have been misguided. He looked comfortable against high-level opposition and demonstrated qualities that could translate into regular top-flight football with further experience.
No one is expecting immediate elevation to a starting role. Forest’s defensive partnership of Murillo and Milenkovic remains the backbone of the side. However, squad depth matters across a long campaign, and Cunha now looks like a more dependable understudy than previously assumed.
This was not a flawless performance. Young defenders rarely produce complete displays at this stage of their careers. But it was encouraging, and it offered a glimpse of what Forest may have in their ranks if given the right development pathway.
Cunha’s Europa League introduction may ultimately be remembered as a coming-of-age moment. Even in defeat, he showed the attributes required to compete at a higher level. If Forest continue to nurture his progress, they could benefit from a defender capable of stepping up when required.
For now, his role remains that of a promising talent learning the demands of elite competition. But last night suggested he is closer to being a genuine option than some might have believed. In a season where Forest have relied heavily on their established defenders, discovering a capable alternative could prove invaluable moving forward.