Igor Thiago’s journey from garbage collector, bricklayer to Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad

Brazilian striker Igor Thiago’s journey from poverty in Brazil to Premier League stardom has been shaped by family sacrifice, personal loss and resilience. After a record-breaking season with Brentford earned him his first Brazil call-up, a difficult World Cup left him facing renewed scrutiny. Now, the 25-year-old is drawing strength from his wife and children as he looks to rebuild his form.