Brentford striker Igor Thiago stated that his competition with Manchester City’s Erling Haaland for the Premier League’s top scorer title has provided him with additional motivation to represent Brazil.
The uncapped Thiago has netted 19 league goals this season, which is three fewer than the leading Haaland, and has been included in Ancelotti’s squad for the upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia.
“Our national team roster is extensive, so I believe that to reach this point, you must deliver performances like these,” Thiago, 24, remarked.
“Being in contention with Haaland for the top scorer title alongside a player of his quality, a prolific goal-scorer, enhances my motivation to represent my country.”
“[It increases my motivation] to demonstrate that I am prepared for this opportunity that has presented itself … With such a large squad, I think you need to have these statistics to be eligible to represent our nation.”
Thiago joined Brentford in 2024 and has recently signed a contract extension that will keep him at the west London club until at least 2031. He has played a crucial role in the club’s ascent to seventh place in the Premier League.
“The effort I am putting in is being recognized by others,” Thiago stated. “To represent our country by competing in one of the most challenging tournaments globally, while delivering strong performances and achieving results, is a source of pride for me. Being here today is, in my view, the greatest dream of my life, the most significant accomplishment of my life.”
Ancelotti aims for Brazil to embody ‘Carnival’
Brazil will face France on Thursday in Boston before taking on Croatia on March 31 in Orlando, marking the final national team friendlies before Ancelotti announces his definitive World Cup squad on May 18.
The former Real Madrid manager has not yet finalized his decisions regarding certain players.
“There are four or five spots remaining, and in that respect, we have many uncertainties,” Ancelotti noted.
“That is why I have called up players I am not very familiar with. I need one defender, two midfielders, and two additional forwards. The competition is intense. It is fortunate for the national team that the players possess such talent.”
Ancelotti emphasizes that he will continue to depend on a four-man attacking line.
<p"I want four players up front, considering the composition of the squad we have," he explained. "We have some excellent players in attack, so we must capitalize on their abilities."
Ancelotti took charge of the national team in May 2025 and will strive to lead Brazil to their sixth World Cup title, having not won the tournament since 2002, with their closest attempt since being a fourth-place finish in 2014 when they hosted the event.
The Brazil coach also desires his national team to reflect the essence of Brazil’s renowned Carnival, highlighting what makes it unique. “The national team’s identity is crucial,” he stated.
“Brazil’s identity is characterized by talent, energy, and joy. I want to liken Brazilian football to the Carnival. The Carnival was a new experience for me; I discovered it is filled with energy, joy, artistry, and talent. And a great deal of organization.
“Coordinating all the decorated floats, with precise timing — we need to incorporate all of that into the national team. Joy, energy, talent, and organization.”
