Igor Thiago makes Manchester United confession

Manchester United’s connection with Brazilian footballers has long been a strong one.

From the flair and steel of past imports to the modern influence of players like summer signing Matheus Cunha, the club’s pull in South America remains powerful.

United’s global reach – particularly during the Sir Alex Ferguson era – left a lasting impression on an entire generation of young footballers growing up watching the Premier League with the likes of Rafael Leao, not long ago, posting Manchester United related posts on social media.

That influence is still being felt.

One of the Premier League’s standout performers this season has now revealed that Manchester United played a major role in shaping his love for the game.

Igor Thiago, currently second in the Premier League Golden Boot race, admitted in an interview with TNT Sports that football was not always his passion – until United entered the picture.

Speaking candidly, the Brentford striker said:

“Always wanted to be a professional footballer? NO, I didn’t even like it that much, but after my brother started talking to me and made me watch the Premier League very weekend, especially Manchester United.”

“And then I started paying closer attention to united from there it grew on me with feelings of love and affection. Then I wanted to become a player too.”

It’s a striking admission from one of the division’s most in-form forwards.

Thiago’s rise this season has been relentless.

Clinical in front of goal.

Physically dominant. Confident.

His performances have elevated him into the Golden Boot conversation and firmly onto the radar of Europe’s biggest clubs.

But behind the goals lies a familiar story: a player captivated by the spectacle of Manchester United.

United’s attacking heritage – from iconic No.9s to dynamic wide forwards – has inspired countless players worldwide.

For Thiago, it wasn’t just the football.

It was the emotion. The affection. The sense of belonging he felt watching from afar.

Now, he is carving his own story in England’s top flight.

And the influence that sparked it all?

Manchester United.