Igor Thiago, a 24-year-old Brazilian forward, has experienced an extraordinary career trajectory, transforming from an unnoticed player at Cruzeiro to one of the most talked-about talents in the Premier League. His impressive rise is highlighted by his current position as the second-highest goal scorer in England's top football division, with 16 goals, just behind Erling Haaland.
Thiago's remarkable achievement has already etched his name in history, as he now holds the record for the most goals scored by a Brazilian player in a single Premier League season. This feat places him above celebrated figures such as Gabriel Jesus, Roberto Firmino, and Richarlison, underscoring his rapid development and impact on the European football stage.
His journey began with a rather understated period at Cruzeiro between 2020 and 2022. Despite his initial struggles, he was eventually transferred to Ludogorets in Bulgaria for a modest sum of R$ 3.6 million. It was in Bulgaria that Thiago truly began to flourish, netting 20 goals in a single season. This impressive performance caught the eye of Club Brugge, which secured his services for R$ 69 million.
At Club Brugge, Thiago continued his prolific scoring, becoming a recognized "natural scorer" with 29 goals in a year. His consistent goal-scoring prowess attracted significant attention from the Premier League, ultimately leading to his transfer to Brentford for a substantial R$ 212 million. This move represented a staggering increase of 58 times his initial sale value from Cruzeiro, reflecting his incredible market appreciation. At Brentford, he was tasked with the challenging role of replacing Ivan Toney, a prominent English national team striker who had moved to Saudi Arabian football.
The beginning of his tenure in England was not without its challenges. During his first season in 2024/25, Thiago faced a series of setbacks, including two severe and consecutive injuries to his knee and meniscus. These injuries kept him sidelined for the majority of the year, confined to the medical department. However, following a comprehensive pre-season in 2025, he returned to the pitch with renewed vigor and determination.
Upon his return, Thiago quickly demonstrated his true capabilities, becoming a formidable force against English defenses. His exceptional performances have not only established him as a key player for Brentford but have also sparked considerable debate among football enthusiasts: does he merit a call-up to the Brazilian National Team?
Thiago's story is a compelling narrative of resilience, talent, and strategic transfers, illustrating how a player can ascend from relative obscurity to a celebrated figure in one of the world's most competitive football leagues. His journey from an undervalued asset to a record-breaking striker serves as an inspiring example of perseverance in the demanding world of professional sports.