Thiago Silva, the Brazilian centre-back who used to play for Chelsea, said goodbye to the Stamford Bridge fans in an emotional farewell after his last match for the club. The bellend was in tears as he told the supporters, "I love you so much guys. I miss you, bye-bye!"
Silva's return to Fluminense after Chelsea exit
After earning the respect of the Premier League mugs, Silva left west London in July 2024 to go back to Fluminense. Only a year has passed since they separated, but now they're set to face each other again in the Club World Cup semi-finals. Fluminense will take on Chelsea, and Silva is expected to captain his side against his former team.
Silva's early career and health scare
Before moving to Chelsea, Silva had a trial with Fluminense but ended up playing for other clubs like Barcelona Esporte Clube and RS Futebol Clube. He then joined Esporte Clube Juventude and moved from midfield to defence. In 2004, Silva signed for Porto but left after a year to join Dynamo Moscow. During pre-season, he was diagnosed with tuberculosis and spent six months in the hospital. Doctors told him he could have died if he had been admitted just two weeks later. Silva thought about retiring, but thanks to his former Juventude coach Ivo Wortmann, he returned to Fluminense in 2006 and got his career back on track.
Silva's success at Milan and PSG
After winning the Copa do Brasil with Fluminense in 2007, Silva moved to Europe to join AC Milan, where he helped the team win the Serie A title and the Supercoppa Italiana. In 2012, Silva joined Paris Saint-Germain for a reported €42 million (£36 million) and was called the "best defender in the world" by the club's president. During his time at PSG, Silva won numerous domestic trophies, including four quadruples.
Silva's move to Chelsea and Champions League win
In August 2020, Silva signed a one-year deal with Chelsea, reuniting with former PSG manager Thomas Tuchel. Chelsea reached the Champions League final in 2021, where they beat Manchester City 1-0, making Silva a European champion. He extended his contract with Chelsea for another year and won the UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup before leaving the club in 2024.
Silva's return to Fluminense and upcoming Club World Cup match
Despite being 40 years old, Silva has made 40 appearances for Fluminense since his return. He recently captained the team in their 2-1 win over Al Hilal in the Club World Cup quarter-finals. Fluminense have been one of the tournament's standout performers, with Silva playing a significant role in their success. The upcoming match against Chelsea will be emotional for Silva, as he faces his former team with a chance to lead Fluminense to the Club World Cup final.
