Igor Thiago’s Meteoric Rise Rewarded with Maiden Brazil Call-Up
London, 21 March 2026 – Brentford striker Igor Thiago has capped a sensational debut Premier League season by earning his first-ever call-up to the Brazil national team. The 24-year-old’s inclusion in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for the upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia is a testament to his remarkable impact in England, where he has emerged as a surprise contender for the Golden Boot.
A Week of Landmarks
The call-up, confirmed earlier this week, was swiftly followed by another demonstration of Thiago’s form. In Brentford’s 2-2 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers, the Brazilian marked the occasion by scoring his 19th Premier League goal of the campaign. This consistent output has been central to Brentford’s unexpected push for European qualification, defying pre-season relegation predictions. Head coach Keith Andrews has publicly urged the striker to “keep striving” for more, acknowledging the call-up as a deserved reward for his hard work.
Key Facts: Igor Thiago
The following table outlines the key career and statistical details of Brentford’s breakthrough star.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Igor Thiago Nascimento Rodrigues |
| Date of Birth | 26 June 2001 (Age 24) |
| Nationality | Brazilian |
| Current Club | Brentford FC |
| Position | Centre-Forward |
| 2025/26 Premier League Stats | 19 goals, 1 assist (as of 21 March 2026) |
| Market Value | Approx. €50 million |
| Joined Brentford | 2024, from Club Brugge (€33 million) |
From Humble Beginnings to Premier League Stardom
Thiago’s journey to the top has been unconventional. Prior to his football career taking off, he worked as a bricklayer in his native Brazil. His professional breakthrough came in Bulgaria with Ludogorets Razgrad, where a title-winning 2022/23 season featuring 15 league goals earned him a move to Club Brugge. A prolific single season in Belgium, where he scored 29 goals, convinced Brentford to make him their club-record signing in 2024. His adaptation to the Premier League has been seamless, with his physicality and goal-scoring instinct translating perfectly to English football.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many goals has Igor Thiago scored this season?
In the 2025/26 Premier League season, Igor Thiago has scored 19 goals, making him one of the division’s top scorers and a contender for the Golden Boot.
Has Igor Thiago played for Brazil before?
No. The call-up for the March 2026 international friendlies is his first ever selection for the senior Brazil national team. He had not previously represented Brazil at any youth level.
Which clubs has Igor Thiago played for?
His senior club career path is: Cruzeiro (Brazil) → Ludogorets Razgrad (Bulgaria) → Club Brugge (Belgium) → Brentford (England).
Is Igor Thiago signing a new contract?
Recent reports indicate Thiago has signed a new long-term contract with Brentford, described as a five-and-a-half year deal with a club option for a further year.