Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti sprung an upset as he opted to call upon Neymar rather than Joao Pedro for the 2026 World Cup.
Neymar has struggled for regular game time due to injury following his return to Santos last year. Conversely, Pedro shone in his debut season for a sub-par Chelsea side, rattling in 15 league goals for the Blues.
However, the Chelsea man missed out on a World Cup spot. Brentford bruiser Igor Thiago, meanwhile, earned his spot on the plane.
Thiago was exceptional for Brentford this season. Indeed, only Erling Haaland (27) scored more goals than the Brazil international (22) in England’s top tier this term.
The Bees hitman may have missed out on the Premier League’s Golden Boot. He may not win the award in North America this summer, but it stands to reason he ends the tournament as Brazil’s top scorer, and is 11/2 to do so on LiveScoreBet*.
With ample support from the likes of Vinicius Junior, Raphinha and Matheus Cunha, Thiago should flourish.
The 24-year-old scored his first ever Brazil goal on his second appearance for the Selecao. He can be expected to add to that tally this summer, even if Ancelotti utilises the Brentford star from the bench.
Back Igor Thiago to be Brazil’s top scorer at the 2026 World Cup
*Odds correct as of 25/5/26
Next, read Brazil World Cup Squad News: Did Pedro Deserve to Miss Out at Neymar’s Expense?
