Nottingham Forest are closely managing John's recovery.
However, the club's approach now points towards a broader strategy. It is up to the Brazil national team staff as the goalkeeper looks to return in April.
The 29-year-old player is in the final stages of his rehabilitation undergoing knee surgery In January. While the outlines of his temporary move to train at Botafogo have already been outlined, the thinking behind it is becoming clearer.
Nottingham Forest are not backing out of this process. Instead, they seem comfortable allowing John to complete this phase with the medical and performance staff who know him well – both at Botafogo and within the Brazil setup.
Brazil's workers play central role in recovery
A key figure in that process is Claudio Taffarel. As confirmed by a Brazilian journalist wow fatThe goalkeeping coach is actively monitoring John's recovery as the player works towards full fitness.
Taffarel's involvement holds additional significance from a Premier League perspective. The former Brazil international previously worked as Liverpool's goalkeeping coach, giving him a strong understanding of the physical demands and rhythm of English football.
That connection helps bridge the gap between club and country. It also ensures that John's recovery is in line with what is expected of him when he returns to action in England.
The decision to locate this final phase in Rio de Janeiro reflects that confidence. John spent a successful spell at Botafogo. He remains familiar with the club's atmosphere, staff and facilities.
Comeback timeline and World Cup race
different from last updateNow there is increasing clarity regarding his return. The hope is that John can return to the field in April, provided there are no setbacks in this final stage.
That timeline is important. Brazil announced their latest squad for upcoming friendlies this week, and John was not included. The selected goalkeepers were Alisson, Bento and Ederson. Still the door is not closed.
John has already received a call-up for the end of 2025 and remains on the radar. With the World Cup squad expected to be finalized in mid-May, a full and timely recovery could put them back into contention.
What does this mean for nottingham forest
For Nottingham Forest, the priority is steady and reliable returns. Even before the injury, John had established himself as first choice. He started five consecutive Premier League matches and made appearances in other competitions.
Allowing him to complete this stage in Brazil does not indicate distance from the situation. Instead, it suggests a pragmatic approach. This is the person who uses the strongest possible support network to maximize their chances of returning to the right level.
If the plan works, Forest regain a reliable option between the positions. At the same time, John also keeps alive a realistic path to a return to the Brazil team at a crucial moment in the international calendar.
🇮🇹 Mathias Oliveira | Nottingham Forest are insistent ➡️ Summer transfer building https://t.co/c4x6E5Hwse #nffc
- Sports Witness (@Sport_Witness) 13 March 2026
