Jair Cunha

Jair Paula da Cunha Filho (born 7 March 2005), known as Jair Cunha or just Jair, is a Brazilian professional footballer who plays as a central defender for club Nottingham Forest.

Club career Santos

Born in Orlândia, São Paulo, Jair joined Santos' youth setup in 2016, aged ten. On 19 June 2021, he signed his first professional contract with the club, agreeing to a deal until 2024.

On 22 June 2022, Jair renewed his link with Peixe until June 2025, and started to train with the first team squad in August. On 12 January of the following year, he suffered a knee injury while playing for the under-20s in the 2023 Copa São Paulo de Futebol Júnior.

Jair returned to trainings in August 2023, while entering the final stages of his recovery. He was declared fit to play in October, and made his professional – and Série A – debut on 9 November, coming on as a late substitute for fellow youth graduate Marcos Leonardo in a 1–0 away win over Goiás.

On 23 April 2024, after becoming an immediate backup to starters Gil and Joaquim, Jair renewed his contract with Santos until December 2026.

Botafogo On 10 February 2025, Botafogo announced the signing of Jair on a four-year contract.

Nottingham Forest On 11 July 2025, Jair signed a five-year deal with Premier League side Nottingham Forest for an undisclosed transfer fee.

International career On 17 May 2024, Jair and Santos teammates JP Chermont and Souza were called up to the Brazil national under-20 team for a period of training. On 20 December, he was included in the squad for the 2025 South American U-20 Championship.

Career statistics

Honours Santos Campeonato Brasileiro Série B: 2024

Brazil U20 South American Youth Football Championship: 2025