Belgian analysts believe Brentford striker Igor Thiago will make Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad — provided he reaches 15 goals this season.
Speaking on Sporza, football commentators Filip Joos and Tuur Dierckx praised the 23-year-old’s resurgence in the Premier League, suggesting he’s already outperforming several of Brazil’s established forwards, including Richarlison and João Pedro.
Thiago has scored eight Premier League goals in 11 games this season, plus another in the EFL Cup, bringing his total to nine in 12 appearances under manager Keith Andrews. That tally puts him second in the top-flight scoring charts behind Erling Haaland (14).
A stunning comeback from injury
Thiago’s form marks a remarkable turnaround from last year, when a serious knee injury derailed his debut campaign after arriving from Club Brugge. At the time, some feared the £25m signing might become an expensive setback. Instead, the Brazilian has evolved into Brentford’s new talisman, easing the void left by Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa.
He’s also scored three more league goals than Mbeumo managed at the same stage last season — a statistic that underlines his impact on a Brentford side many tipped to struggle for goals.
Analysts back Thiago over Chelsea and Spurs rivals
Joos made no secret of his admiration for the forward’s style and mentality.
“When I see Igor Thiago playing now… they don’t have that profile anymore at Club Brugge,” said Joos. “He hasn’t been called up yet, but he will definitely be in the World Cup. 100%. If you look at Richarlison — sorry — and João Pedro, Thiago is simply better.”
Dierckx agreed, adding: “If Thiago has 15 Premier League goals by the end of the season, he will indeed be in the World Cup. And he will, right?”
The comparison is telling: both Richarlison and João Pedro have four Premier League goals each — the same combined total as Thiago.
| Stat (2025/26) | Igor Thiago |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 12 |
| Goals | 9 |
| Assists | 2 |
| Shots on Target per game | 2.3 |
| Pass Accuracy | 78% |
source: Sofascore data – 12 November 2025
Those numbers reflect a forward in peak form — powerful, composed, and intelligent in his movement — qualities that have quickly made him a fan favourite at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Our View: Brazil’s No.9 conversation just got interesting
In our view, Igor Thiago’s rise puts him firmly in the mix for Brazil’s next-generation attack. His ability to hold the ball, press aggressively, and finish efficiently has given Brentford a cutting edge. Compared to Richarlison and João Pedro, Thiago offers a more complete centre-forward profile — one Brazil have arguably lacked since Gabriel Jesus’ early years.
If he reaches 15–18 league goals, it’s hard to imagine Brazil’s selectors overlooking him for 2026. His current trajectory suggests he could surpass that mark well before the end of the campaign.
Key Insights
- Igor Thiago has nine goals in 12 games this season for Brentford.
- Analysts Filip Joos and Tuur Dierckx believe he’ll make Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad if he reaches 15 goals.
- Joos rates Thiago above Tottenham’s Richarlison and Chelsea’s João Pedro.
- Thiago has bounced back from a serious knee injury to become Brentford’s main attacking outlet.
- He currently ranks second in the Premier League scoring chart.
What’s Next
Brentford face Brighton on 22 November, giving Thiago another chance to close in on double figures. Brazil’s next international window in March could offer the perfect stage for his long-awaited debut — provided his scoring streak continues.
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