Brazilian Igor Thiago is emerging as one of the biggest sensations in English football during the 2025/2026 season. With an impressive tally of 16 goals for Brentford, the prolific striker now sits just behind Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, who has scored 19 goals in the Premier League. Thiago’s rise is not only remarkable because of his goal-scoring prowess but also because he has broken the record for the most goals scored by a Brazilian in a single Premier League season.
Igor Thiago’s Record-Breaking Premier League Season
After scoring a double in Brentford’s recent victory against Sunderland, Thiago surpassed the previous Premier League goal record for Brazilian players set by Matheus Cunha, who netted 15 goals last season. This milestone cements Thiago’s status as a key figure at Brentford and places him among the elite forwards in the league. At just 23 years of age, his rise has been swift and steady, making him a name to watch not only in England but across Europe.
The Rise of Igor Thiago: From Brazil to Europe
Born in Gama, Federal District, Igor Thiago’s journey began in the youth ranks of Cruzeiro. He was promoted to the senior squad in 2020, where he demonstrated his potential with skill and goal-scoring ability. In 2022, he made a move to Ludogorets in Bulgaria for €1.3 million, marking his first step into European football. His time there was marked by rapid development, registering 21 goals and 11 assists in 55 matches — an impressive return that caught the attention of bigger clubs.
This led to his transfer to Belgian side Club Brugge for €11 million. In Belgium, Thiago continued to shine, scoring 29 goals over 55 games and showcasing his versatility and knack for finding the back of the net consistently. His performances were so outstanding that he commanded a €33 million transfer fee at the end of his inaugural season with Club Brugge, highlighting his growing reputation in European football.
Igor Thiago’s Impact at Brentford
Thiago’s first year at Brentford was marred by two serious knee injuries, limiting him to just eight appearances. However, once fully fit, he has been one of the standout players in the squad, thriving under the guidance of assistant coach Keith Andrews. His physicality, combined with technical ability, has made him a focal point in Brentford’s attack. Valued currently at around €35 million, Thiago is the team’s star forward, helping Brentford secure a commendable seventh position in the highly competitive Premier League table.
What Makes Igor Thiago a Premier League Sensation?
One of Igor Thiago’s standout qualities is his physical presence on the pitch. Speaking to analysts, football expert Littlemore highlighted Thiago’s ability to intimidate defenders with his strength and skill. “He has a wide repertoire of finishing skills and can hold off defenders effectively,” Littlemore noted. This makes him an ideal target man for Brentford’s attacking wingers who can take advantage of his ability to create space and opportunities.
His finishing is not limited to physicality alone: Thiago boasts a range of techniques from powerful shots, clinical placement, to deft chips. This versatility in attack is part of why he has found such consistent success in front of goal.
Igor Thiago and the Future of Brazil’s National Squad
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Igor Thiago is emerging as a potential dark horse for inclusion in Brazil’s squad. Currently, Brazil’s coach Carlo Ancelotti has struggled to find a reliable No.9 striker. Players like Richarlison, Igor Jesus, and João Pedro have been tried in friendlies, but without marked success. Thiago’s combination of physical presence and finishing precision offers a promising alternative.
Littlemore commented on Thiago’s suitability for the national team, emphasizing how his ability to hold up play could unlock the full potential of Brazil’s talented wingers and attacking midfielders. The synergy between Thiago’s playing style and Brazil’s creative attacking lineup could prove key for the Selecao’s success on the world stage.
