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Thiago’s Journey to the Top Marked by Rejection, Depression and a Mother’s Inspiration
The path to the Premier League for Igor Thiago has been marked by twists and turns, with BBC Sport documenting the journey of Brentford’s Brazilian striker, who has made history with his record-breaking achievements.
Igor Thiago's journey to the top of professional football has been marked by perseverance and determination, overcoming rejections, depression, and adversity to achieve his goals, fueled by a promise he made to his mother, Maria Diva.
As a young boy, Thiago could not have predicted that he would one day break the record for most goals scored by a Brazilian player in a Premier League season, but his passion for the sport and unwavering dedication have driven him to succeed.
From a young age, Thiago's focus was on becoming a professional footballer, and he has remained committed to this goal, undeterred by the challenges he has faced along the way.
The promise Thiago made to his mother, Maria Diva, has been a constant source of motivation for him, and he has never forgotten the difficulties she faced raising four children on her own while working as a refuse collector.
A particularly poignant moment for Thiago was when his family was invited to a meal where everyone was expected to bring a dish, but his mother, struggling to make ends meet, arrived empty-handed, leading to a humiliating experience that has stayed with him.
On the way home from this gathering, Thiago's mother was reduced to tears after a relative made a thoughtless comment, prompting Thiago to vow that he would never let anyone humiliate her again.
Thiago's response to his mother's humiliation was to reassure her that he would become a successful footballer and make her proud, a promise that has driven him to push through the tough times.
Although his mother may have doubted his ability to achieve his goal at the time, Thiago was resolute in his determination to succeed.
However, Thiago's path to success has not been without its challenges, and he has faced numerous setbacks, including rejections at trials and a period of depression that made him question his future in the sport.
Despite these obstacles, Thiago has persevered, and his hard work and dedication have ultimately paid off, as he has established himself as a talented and prolific goal-scorer.
Thiago's journey to professional football began in earnest when he signed with a club at the age of 17, after facing several rejections and setbacks in his early years.
During this time, Thiago's mentor, Sergio Goncalves, played an important role in supporting and guiding him, even when Thiago doubted his own abilities and considered giving up on his dreams.
Goncalves recalls that Thiago would often call him in tears, feeling discouraged and unsure if he had what it took to make it as a professional footballer, but he always encouraged him to keep pushing forward.
This season, Thiago has scored 16 goals in the Premier League, a testament to his skill and dedication as a player.
If he continues to perform at this level, Thiago is on track to reach the 20-goal mark for the fourth time in his European career, a remarkable achievement considering the setbacks he has faced.
Thiago's next challenge is the upcoming west London derby against Chelsea, a high-stakes match that will require all his skill and focus.
Thiago's early career was shaped by his experiences playing for Gremio Ocidental in Brazil, where he developed his skills and learned valuable lessons that have stayed with him to this day.
After losing his father at a young age, Thiago found a paternal figure in Goncalves, who mentored him from the age of eight to 16 and helped him navigate the challenges of his early career.
According to Goncalves, Thiago's background in futsal has given him a unique advantage as a player, allowing him to develop his skills in a more dynamic and fast-paced environment.
Goncalves believes that Thiago's experience playing futsal has been instrumental in shaping his game, giving him the quick thinking and dynamism that have become hallmarks of his playing style.
When Thiago joined Cruzeiro, he made an immediate impact, scoring in his senior debut, but this initial success was not sustained, and he faced significant challenges in his time with the club.
Thiago's experience with Cruzeiro was marked by turmoil, both on and off the pitch, as the team struggled with financial difficulties and internal conflicts.
The club's poor performance during this period, finishing 11th and 14th in their Serie B campaigns, took a toll on the players and staff, creating a difficult environment for Thiago to develop his skills.
Former Brazil international Mozart Santos, who had a brief spell as head coach at Cruzeiro, recalls the significant challenges the team faced during this time, including delayed wage payments and transfer bans.
Santos believes that the turmoil at the club had a disproportionate impact on younger players like Thiago, who may have struggled to cope with the pressure and uncertainty.
Thiago has spoken publicly about the depression he experienced during this period, feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about his future in the sport.
In an interview with the Futebol no Mundo podcast, Thiago opened up about the struggles he faced, including nights when he felt like giving up on football altogether.
However, Thiago credited his mother and children with giving him the strength to persevere, and he eventually found the courage to keep pushing forward.
With the support of his loved ones, Thiago was able to overcome his struggles and refocus on his goals, ultimately deciding to leave Cruzeiro and start anew.
In 2022, Thiago made the decision to move to a new club, seeking a fresh start and a chance to revive his career.
Bulgarian champions Ludogorets, who had previously attempted to sign him, offered Thiago a new opportunity, and he seized it, joining the club and beginning a new chapter in his career.
According to former Ludogorets assistant coach Rafael Ferreira, Thiago's mentality and work ethic set him apart from other players, and he has a unique ability to grow and develop in the right environment.
Ferreira believes that Thiago's strong mentality and desire to improve have been key factors in his success, allowing him to overcome obstacles and achieve his goals.
Thiago's approach to the game is characterized by his willingness to learn and adapt, as evidenced by his decision to play for the second team when he was not getting minutes with the first team.
Thiago's teammates have also been impressed by his dedication and work ethic, with former Ludogorets midfielder Cauly noting that Thiago's desire to improve and learn from others is a rare quality in a player.
Cauly recalls that Thiago would often seek feedback from older players, demonstrating a humility and willingness to learn that is not always seen in players with his physical attributes and talent.
Thiago's time at Ludogorets was marked by significant success, including 20 goals in a single season, and he quickly established himself as a key player for the club.
After just one full season with Ludogorets, Thiago's performances earned him a move to Club Brugge in Belgium, a testament to his growth and development as a player.
Ferreira remembers Thiago's ability to make an impact on the game, even in limited minutes, and believes that his energy and mentality have been instrumental in his success.
Sergio Goncalves, Thiago's early mentor, has been a constant source of support and guidance throughout his career, and their relationship remains an important part of Thiago's journey to the top of professional football.
During his sole season with Club Brugge, Thiago netted 29 goals, showcasing his scoring prowess.
In anticipation of a competitive transfer market, Brentford secured his services for a record-breaking £30m, bringing him in as a replacement for Ivan Toney, who had been sold to Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia.
According to Cauly, Thiago had long expressed his aspiration to compete in the Premier League, often speaking admiringly of Erling Haaland, and is now vying with him for the top scorer title.
Cauly expressed his delight at Thiago's success, stating that he is a deserving individual with a kind heart, and his achievements are a testament to his character.
As Brazil prepares for the World Cup, there is a growing expectation that head coach Carlo Ancelotti will include Thiago in his squad for the upcoming tournament, given the team's need for a reliable number nine.
Goncalves believes that Thiago's inclusion in the next squad is a necessity, stating that his omission would be unjust, especially considering the team's requirements ahead of the World Cup.
With Brazil currently lacking a skilled striker, Goncalves thinks that Thiago has the potential to make a significant impact, and his presence could be a game-changer for the team.
Goncalves has high hopes for Thiago, envisioning him scoring the winning goal in the World Cup final, and is eager to see him represent Brazil on the international stage.
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Aberdeen to unveil new manager soon with Docherty set to take assistant role
Aberdeen has bolstered its interim management team with the return of Tony Docherty, who previously served as an assistant manager, to support Peter Leven, amid anticipation of a permanent appointment announcement that sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel had indicated would be made “imminently”.
Ross County parted ways with Tony Docherty in December, and he has now taken on a new role.
Aberdeen have brought in former assistant manager Tony Docherty to support Peter Leven's interim management team, despite sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel indicating that a permanent appointment was imminent.
Docherty's return to Aberdeen comes just a week after Eirik Horneland, a former coach of Rosenborg, Brann, and Saint-Etienne, emerged as a top contender to succeed Jimmy Thelin, who was sacked earlier.
As Aberdeen delays making a full-time appointment, speculation surrounding Eirik Horneland's availability has arisen, with reports suggesting the 50-year-old Norwegian may not be able to take on the role until summer.
Since Jimmy Thelin's dismissal on January 4, Lutz Pfannenstiel has been leading the search for a replacement, and he confirmed that Tony Docherty would be joining the team to assist Peter Leven during the interim period.
Dundee Utd are facing a challenging schedule, with four matches in 14 days set to take place on a weather-affected pitch.
According to Stavrum, Eirik Horneland's coaching style, characterized by intensity, would be a good fit for Aberdeen.
Tony Docherty initially joined Aberdeen in 2013 as part of Derek McInnes' management team and spent eight years at the club.
Before his stint at Aberdeen, Docherty served as McInnes' assistant at Kilmarnock and later managed Dundee and Ross County, but his time at Ross County ended in December when he was let go with the team at the bottom of the Championship.
Lutz Pfannenstiel praised Tony Docherty's experience, stating that he has a deep understanding of the club and will be a valuable asset during the transition period.
Pfannenstiel highlighted Docherty's extensive knowledge of the Scottish Premiership, gained through his experience as both a coach and manager, which will be beneficial to the team in the short term.
The club's managerial search is nearing its conclusion, and an announcement regarding the new head coach is expected soon, according to Pfannenstiel.
Peter Leven, who is serving as caretaker manager for the third time, expressed his enthusiasm for Tony Docherty's appointment.
Leven welcomed Docherty's return, stating that his experience will be a significant boost to the team, particularly during the upcoming matches.
Leven noted that Docherty was eager to join the team and that his presence will provide valuable support during both training sessions and matches.
Eirik Horneland left his position at Saint-Etienne in early February, at which point his team was fourth in France's second tier.
If Aberdeen decides to wait until summer for Horneland to take over, it will be similar to the six-month delay that occurred when Jimmy Thelin joined the club from Elfsborg in the summer of 2024.
For the latest news, analysis, and fan perspectives on Aberdeen, visit our dedicated page.
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Peter Murrell faces allegations of misusing £459,000 in funds over 12 years
Allegations have been made that he bought various items, such as luxury goods, jewellery, cosmetics, two cars and a motorhome, in an improper manner.
Peter Murrell, the former chief executive of the Scottish National Party, is facing allegations of embezzling £459,000 from the party over a 12-year period.

An indictment document obtained by BBC News outlines the case against Murrell, who is the estranged husband of former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.
The alleged embezzlement is said to have occurred between August 2010 and January 2023, according to the indictment.
It is claimed that Murrell used party funds to purchase luxury items, including jewellery, cosmetics, and vehicles, such as two cars and a motorhome.
The Scottish Sun was the first to report on the details of the indictment.
A preliminary hearing in the case is scheduled to take place at the High Court in Glasgow on Friday, 20 February, where Murrell is expected to appear.
During his initial court appearance at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, Murrell made no plea and was subsequently granted bail.
Murrell's arrest in 2023 was part of Operation Branchform, a police investigation into the SNP's funding and finances, which led to him being charged with embezzlement in April 2024.

Although Sturgeon was questioned by police as part of the investigation, she is no longer considered a suspect.
BBC News has obtained a copy of the indictment against Murrell ahead of his upcoming court appearance.
It is worth noting that the indictment is subject to change until the case is heard in court and may be amended throughout the judicial process.
The indictment alleges that Murrell purchased a £124,550 motorhome for personal use and created false documents to justify the expense as a legitimate party expenditure.
Murrell is also accused of using £57,500 of party funds to buy a Jaguar I-PACE car in 2019, and falsifying an invoice to conceal the true nature of the purchase.
Furthermore, it is alleged that when the Jaguar was sold in 2021, Murrell deposited more than £47,000 into his personal bank account.
The indictment also claims that Murrell embezzled £16,489 from the SNP to partially fund the purchase of a Volkswagen Golf in 2016.
A list of over 80 retailers is included in the indictment, where Murrell allegedly made purchases totalling more than £159,000 between 2014 and 2022, using party credit or charge cards for personal expenses.
The retailers named in the indictment include Harrods, the Royal Mint, John Lewis, Homebase, and Argos, among others.
It is alleged that Murrell used SNP credit or charge cards to make these purchases and then inserted false or inaccurate accounting codes and descriptions into the party's accounting systems.
The indictment also accuses Murrell of making purchases worth over £81,600 through Amazon using the same method.
Murrell served as the SNP's chief executive for 22 years before his departure.
Murrell and Sturgeon were married in 2010, but announced their separation in January 2025, after being together for many years.
News
Bangladesh Nationalist Party Wins Landslide in Country’s First Poll Since Youth-Led Protests
The public is looking forward to a shift back to democratic governance, following a 15-year period of authoritarian leadership by Sheikh Hasina.
In a significant shift in the country's political landscape, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has achieved a decisive majority in parliament, 18 months after widespread protests led to the ousting of Sheikh Hasina, the country's longest-serving prime minister.

The BNP secured over two-thirds of the seats in the recent general election, with the Jamaat party, the main Islamist party in the country, coming in second; meanwhile, the Awami League, led by Hasina, was not allowed to participate in the election.
As the BNP's leader, Tarique Rahman is poised to become the next prime minister, facing significant challenges in revitalizing the economy and restoring democratic principles after 15 years of authoritarian rule under Hasina's leadership.
In a concurrent referendum, voters also expressed support for comprehensive democratic reforms, which are expected to shape the country's future.
Following Friday prayers in Dhaka, Tarique Rahman expressed gratitude to his supporters, stating, "I am grateful for the love you have shown me"; his party has chosen not to hold a victory procession.
Rahman, who was elected to parliament for the first time, was among the 212 successful BNP candidates; according to the Election Commission, voter turnout was 59.44%.
This marks a significant turnaround for Rahman, who spent 17 years in self-imposed exile in London before taking over as party leader after his mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, passed away in December.
During his campaign, Rahman pledged to restore democratic principles and practices in the country.
The new government will need to address pressing issues, including economic revitalization, controlling rising food prices, and creating employment opportunities for the country's large youth population.
Rebuilding relations with neighboring India is also a key priority for the incoming government.
In the aftermath of his victory, Rahman received a congratulatory call from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who acknowledged his "remarkable victory".
Modi took to social media to reaffirm India's commitment to promoting peace, progress, and prosperity in both countries, citing their deep historical and cultural ties.
Although the BNP has pledged to bring about change, the party has faced criticism in the past for corruption and alleged human rights abuses during its previous tenure in government in the early 2000s.
The recent election represents a pivotal moment for the country, with one of the two main parties achieving a significant victory, presenting both opportunities and risks.
Proposed constitutional reforms include introducing term limits for the prime minister, establishing a directly elected upper house of parliament, strengthening presidential powers, and increasing judicial independence.
The reforms also aim to increase female representation in parliament, an area where significant progress is still needed, as evidenced by the limited number of successful female candidates in the recent election.
As the newly elected leader, Tarique Rahman will face intense scrutiny as he works to deliver on his promises to a predominantly young electorate eager for change, many of whom participated in the student-led protests that ultimately led to Hasina's removal and paved the way for the February 12 election.
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