Thiago scored 19 goals in 31 rounds for Brentford, ranking second and trailing the Norwegian superstar from Man City by three goals. This impressive Premier League performance propelled the 24-year-old striker into the Brazil national team for the first time during the current FIFA Days call-up.

Thiago celebrates a goal during Brentford's 2-2 draw with Wolves in round 30 of the Premier League on 16/3. Photo: Reuters

"The national team is very competitive, so to progress, I need to play well," Thiago stated. "Standing alongside Haaland — a world-class player and a scoring machine — motivates me to represent my country. I need impressive statistics to play for the national team."

Thiago developed later than peers like Vinicius or Rodrygo. Before his unexpected breakthrough in the Premier League this season, the 24-year-old striker was known only in Bulgaria and Belgium, where he scored 21 goals for Ludogorets and 29 for Club Brugge. He considers this call-up to the Brazil national team his greatest career achievement.

Brazil currently lacks quality options at center forward, Thiago's natural position. The emerging star will compete with Joao Pedro, Igor Jesus, Vitor Roque, and Richarlison to impress coach Carlo Ancelotti. Two friendly matches against France on 26/3 and Croatia on 31/3 in the US will be the final evaluations before Ancelotti finalizes the World Cup squad in may.

"The national team still has five open spots, including one defender, two midfielders, and two forwards," Ancelotti said last week when announcing the squad. "That is why I have called up players I do not know well yet. The competition will be fierce."

The Italian coach has led Brazil since late 5/2025. Nearly one year of adapting to life there has deepened his understanding of Brazilian football, culture, and player personalities. The manager, who holds a record of five Champions League titles, is particularly impressed by the Carnival festival, which features thousands of dancers in colorful costumes, floats, vibrant music, and grand street parties.

"The national team's DNA is very important," Ancelotti stated. "Brazil's DNA is talent, energy, and joy. I want to compare the national team to the Carnival festival, which embodies so much talent, energy, joy, art, and organizational ability. We need to bring all of that into the team."

Thanh Quy (according to ESPN)