Igor Thiago was one of the biggest surprise packages of last season, transforming from an under-the-radar signing into one of the Premier League's most feared forwards. His remarkable campaign has naturally pushed his Fantasy Premier League (FPL) price up to £8.0M, leaving managers with a difficult question: Is he still worth buying, or has his value disappeared?
Let's break it down.
A Stunning Breakout Campaign
Very few expected Igor Thiago to explode the way he did. The Brentford striker enjoyed an incredible individual season, scoring 22 Premier League goals in 38 league appearances and establishing himself as one of England's elite finishers.
His consistency was arguably even more impressive than the final tally. There were periods during the campaign when Thiago looked capable of challenging Erling Haaland for the Premier League Golden Boot, something almost nobody predicted before the season began.
His goals, physical presence, and ability to deliver against both strong and weaker opponents made him one of the standout FPL forwards throughout the year. Managers who invested early were rewarded with regular returns and a reliable captaincy differential on several occasions.
The £8.0M Price Tag Changes Everything
The problem isn't Thiago's quality; it's his new price.
After such a sensational campaign, FPL has understandably increased his price by £2.0M, taking him from a budget-friendly gem to an £8.0M forward.
That immediately changes the conversation.
At £8.0M, Thiago is no longer a bargain or an easy inclusion. In fact, he's now more expensive than players like Viktor Gyökeres and João Pedro, giving FPL managers several attractive alternatives in the same price bracket.
Last season, his affordability made him an exceptional value. This year, you're paying a premium, which means expectations are significantly higher.
Can Brentford Repeat Their Success?
Another major concern is Brentford themselves.
The Bees exceeded expectations last season, but repeating that level of performance is never guaranteed. Rival Premier League clubs have strengthened significantly during the transfer window, and Brentford could find it much harder to maintain the attacking output that helped Thiago flourish.
If Brentford create fewer chances or struggle for consistency, Thiago's goal tally could naturally decline as well.
That's a risk FPL managers need to consider before committing £8.0M to a player whose outstanding season may prove difficult to replicate.
Other Warning Signs
There are also a few additional reasons for caution.
Thiago endured a disappointing World Cup campaign with Brazil, failing to produce the same level of impact he showed in the Premier League. While international form doesn't always translate directly into club football, it does raise questions about whether his remarkable league season represented his true level or simply an exceptional year.
Combined with the uncertainty surrounding Brentford's ability to maintain last season's momentum, there are enough warning signs to make managers think twice.
Final Verdict: A High-Risk Premium Differential
Igor Thiago is unquestionably a talented striker capable of delivering double-digit goals again.
However, £8.0M feels like a significant gamble. The outstanding value that made him such an attractive FPL asset last season has largely disappeared, while uncertainty around both Brentford's prospects and Thiago's ability to repeat a 20-plus goal campaign makes him a risky investment.
Unless you're the type of FPL manager who enjoys chasing high-risk, high-reward differentials and embracing unpredictability, it may be wiser to look elsewhere.
Verdict: Skip Igor Thiago for now. If he proves he's once again on course for another 20+ goal season, he can always be brought into your squad later. Until then, there are safer and potentially better-value options available at a similar price point.
Also Read |