Thiago Maia was called up to represent Brazil’s Olympic national team in friendlies against Nigeria and South Africa in March.
The young midfielder is one of the players tipped by many to participate in the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro this August. Following his impressive performances for Santos, Thiago Maia has been linked to several clubs in Europe, including Manchester United, Arsenal and Atlético Madrid. But the 19-year-old denies that he wants to leave Santos in the upcoming transfer window, and hopes to have his image on the wall of idols at the club’s training centre. He said: “I have a lot to learn, I want to win trophies and have my picture on the wall before leaving Santos. I need more experience, tricks, more precise in my runs, make more passes, and become more complete. I’m learning from the veterans here, Ricardo Oliveira, Elano, Renato and David Braz.”
When asked for which club he would like to play in Europe, the player added: “PSG. I don’t know the reason! I’m a friend of Marquinhos, he showed me photos, and the structure is monstrous. I liked his shirt and their uniform.”