Morato targets vital ties for Forest: "It's do-or-die" | OneFootball

Nottingham Forest defender Morato is preparing for one of the most important weeks of the season. This Saturday, at 8:30 a.m. (BRT), Forest hosts Chelsea in the eighth round of the Premier League. On Thursday (23), the club faces Porto in the Europa League league phase, also at the City Ground.

Undisputed starter under Postecoglou

At 24 years old, Morato is an undisputed starter and has played in all seven matches since head coach Ange Postecoglou arrived. Praised for his defensive solidity and technique, the center-back is in good individual form, even with Forest sitting in 17th place in the Premier League.

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From the Copinha to European football

Developed by São Paulo, Morato stood out in the 2019 Copinha alongside Antony, Gabriel Sara, and Rodrigo Nestor. In the same year, he was transferred to Benfica, where he played 105 matches and won domestic titles. In 2024, he was signed by Forest for 17 million euros.

Memorable debut season and Brazilian core at Forest

In his debut season in England, Morato made 29 appearances under Nuno Espírito Santo, helping Forest finish 7th and return to European competitions after 30 years. The current squad has a strong Brazilian presence: John, Jair Cunha, Murillo, Douglas Luiz, and Igor Jesus reinforce the club’s South American identity.

Meeting compatriots and full focus

In the clash against Chelsea, Morato will face Estêvão and João Pedro, attackers for the Brazilian national team. The center-back highlighted the importance of the matches:

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