Brentford’s strategic decision to refrain from signing an additional striker was influenced by a series of circumstances, including the timing of Yoane Wissa’s transfer, which did not materialize until the deadline day. However, the club had confidence in the capabilities of their existing £30 million striker, Igor Thiago, who joined from Club Brugge in July 2024 for a record fee.
Despite an injury-hit debut season in which he failed to score in eight matches, the 24-year-old has made a resounding comeback this season. A standout performance against Sunderland, where he netted two goals, brought his tally to an impressive 16 league goals — the highest by any Brazilian player in a single Premier League season. This achievement is particularly notable considering the legacy of Brazilian forwards in the league.
Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy praised Thiago’s impact, highlighting his blend of speed, strength, and technical skill. “He’s been a breath of fresh air,” Murphy remarked, emphasizing that Thiago’s confidence and proficiency with both feet distinguish him as a formidable player.
Remarkably, only three players in Europe’s top five leagues — Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, and Kylian Mbappé — have outscored Thiago so far this season, underscoring the elevated level at which he is competing. His goals have not only been frequent but crucial, with his first goal against Sunderland marking his seventh opener of the season. The significance of the first goal in matches cannot be understated, and Thiago’s ability to consistently capitalize on early opportunities is invaluable for Brentford.
Before facing Sunderland, Thiago boasted a remarkable shooting accuracy of 59.1%, the best among players with at least 30 shots this season. This impressive statistic reflects his consistent targeting, and as a result, he has been able to find the back of the net frequently.
Thiago’s journey to success is marked by resilience, having worked as a bricklayer to support his family following the loss of his father. His life experiences have instilled in him a mental fortitude that allows him to thrive under pressure on the pitch.
Andrews, a member of Brentford’s recruitment team, commended Thiago’s character and adaptation to life at the club, stating that he is a “special person” who has earned his place through hard work. Thiago’s journey exemplifies perseverance, and he continues to develop his skills, establishing himself as a well-rounded center-forward.
With 17 games remaining in the season, fans and analysts alike are excited to see how Thiago’s form will continue to evolve and contribute to Brentford’s campaign, reinforcing the club’s belief in their decision not to seek another striker.