IGOR THIAGO worked as a bricklayer and carried fruit for a living before becoming a Premier League striker.
The Brazilian forward completed a club record move to Brentford from Club Brugge this week, becoming the Bees’ new number nine.
Thiago agreed to move to England in February, with his transfer finally confirmed on Monday.
Following his unveiling, the 23-year-old lifted the lid on his journey to the Premier League.
After losing his dad aged 13, Thiago carried fruit at a fair and worked as a bricklayer to make money.
He also played football and spent his youth career with amateur side Vere before making his debut for Cruzeiro as an 18-year-old.
Speaking to Brentford’s club website, he explained: “When I was 13 years old, my father passed away.
“I started to work at the fair carrying fruit. I also worked as a bricklayer. I had several jobs when I was younger, before I got into professional football and got the opportunity to play abroad.
“It helped me as a man, and it helped me as a person. It helped me to appreciate the little and big things in life, because today I look at my life and see that I’m privileged with everything I have.”
Thiago first moved to Europe in 2022, joining Bulgarian side Ludogorets.
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After just one year with the club, though, he signed for Brugge last summer.
His debut season in Belgium saw Thiago impress both in the league and in Europe.
THIAGO has enjoyed a remarkable rise, from working as a brick layer as a teen.
He began his career at Vere, before joining Cruzeiro’s academy.
Cruzeiro, 2018-22 – 65 apps, 10 goals
Ludogorets, 2022-23 – 55 apps, 21 goals
Club Brugge, 2023-24 – 55 apps, 29 goals
Brentford, 2024 – Present
Honours – Belgian Pro League, 2x Bulgarian First League, Bulgarian Cup
As well as firing Brugge to the title, his seven Conference League goals helped them reach the semi-final.
The forward was also named the competition’s player of the season.
He has now become Thomas Frank’s first summer signing at Brentford as he bolsters his attacking options.
Thiago could be called on to fill the void of England international Ivan Toney next term.
The 27-year-old continues to be linked with an exit amid interest from Manchester United.
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