Brentford striker Igor Thiago outlines World Cup ambitions with Brazil
Brentford striker Igor Thiago has outlined his ambitions with Brazil ahead of the upcoming World Cup following a prolific debut season in the Premier League.
The 24-year-old earned his first senior international call-up in March and has already established himself within the national setup.
The reliable penalty taker has translated his domestic scoring form to the international stage, finding the net twice in his first three appearances for the Selecao.
Embracing the national expectation
Brazil enter the tournament carrying the immense expectations of their supporters, having failed to progress past the quarter-finals in their last two global campaigns.
The five-time world champions have not lifted the prestigious trophy since 2002, prompting the appointment of Carlo Ancelotti to lead the squad this summer.
“When you are playing for the Brazil national team, you have to deal with this kind of pressure because it’s part of playing for Brazil.”
Relying on a personal superpower
The former Club Brugge forward remains completely unfazed by the heightened scrutiny surrounding the team’s prospects.
He attributes his mental resilience and ability to handle elite-level pressure to his deep personal faith.
“My faith is my source of peace, balance and to give my best.”
From childhood dreams to reality
Growing up in South America, the Premier League marksman vividly remembers gathering with dozens of extended family members to watch the national team compete.
“I’ve been dreaming about this moment. When it happened, it took me a while to absorb what was happening because it’s Brazil, there’s something about that which makes it different.”
His journey to the international fold features early career setbacks and challenging developmental stints with Ludogorets before securing his breakthrough move to London.
“To be called up, to represent my country, to fight for my country, to represent my people, it’s something that I can’t explain or put into words.”