Many Brazilian fans simply cannot believe the form Igor Thiago is showing in 2025.
The Brentford striker, who has 11 goals in 14 Premier League matches this season, left Brazil at a time when he “wasn’t good enough” for a Cruzeiro side that were in the second division. That contrast has turned him into one of the most talked-about Brazilian players abroad.
Portal Cruzeirense revisited his early years and made the disbelief clear. “A player who simply didn’t achieve anything here is now a major star in Europe”, they stated.
Igor Thiago came through Cruzeiro’s academy, played 64 senior games and scored ten goals before moving to Europe in 2022. He never convinced the fanbase and rarely produced decisive moments. As a result, many supporters assumed he would have only a modest career.
His numbers at Brentford have changed that narrative. He is the Premier League’s second-highest scorer and sits behind only Erling Haaland. Brazilian outlets describe his rise as unexpected and remarkable.
For many in Brazil, the idea of a former Cruzeiro prospect fighting for that level of recognition in England adds to the astonishment.
the outlet then revisit something more sentimental. Before this breakout season, Igor Thiago said he would like to return to Cruzeiro one day. His quote about “good memories and deep respect” is now circulating again in Brazil, used as evidence of how far he has travelled from those uncertain early years.
