Veteran Brazilian defender Thiago Silva has announced he will be leaving Chelsea at the end of the current season, marking the end of a significant chapter at Stamford Bridge. Silva, whose contract is set to expire this summer, expressed a heartfelt desire to return to the club in a different capacity in the future.
Silva joined Chelsea in August 2020 on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain and quickly became a key figure in the team. During his tenure, he has made 151 appearances and has been pivotal in Chelsea's successes, including their 2021 Champions League victory, a FIFA Club World Cup, and a UEFA Super Cup. Despite his impending departure, Silva's bond with the club remains strong, largely due to his personal connections; his sons, Isago and Iago, are active in Chelsea's youth system.
Reflecting on his time at the club, Silva shared, "Chelsea means a lot to me, I came here with the intention of staying for only one year and it ended up being four years, not just for me but for my family too." He added, "I hope they can continue their careers here at this victorious club that many players wish to be part of."
The announcement comes during a period of transition for Chelsea, which has seen considerable changes in coaching and ownership. Silva's leadership has been a constant through the management tenures of Frank Lampard, Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, and Mauricio Pochettino. His departure signifies one of the last links to the Roman Abramovich era, a time marked by significant investment and success, including the memorable night in Porto where Chelsea lifted the Champions League trophy.
Silva's influence extended beyond the pitch. "The way in which I came into the club, with the support of the club I got to the club as a leader of the club even though I didn't feel like it having arrived as the new guy. It's always difficult to integrate but bit by bit I became part of the group and Frank Lampard played a big part in that," Silva recounted.
Despite his role as a stabilizing figure, Silva's final season has been marred by injuries, with a recent groin injury casting doubt on his availability for Chelsea's final games. His leadership and experience were critical amidst a roster increasingly populated with younger talents under the new ownership led by Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali.
As Silva prepares to say goodbye, he leaves the door open for a future return, hinting at an enduring relationship with the club. "Goodbyes are for those that leave and don't come back. I intend on coming back one day," he stated, expressing his deep emotional connection to the club and its fans.
