After 4 years, Thiago Silva officially left Chelsea and returned to his childhood team Fluminense in Brazil.

After much speculation, centre-back Thiago Silva has finally left Chelsea and joined his dream destination. The 39-year-old star will return to Brazil after the final home game of the season against Bournemouth.

A statement from Chelsea read: “After four seasons with Chelsea, Thiago Silva will leave after our final Premier League game of the season against Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge and re-join Brazilian club Fluminense.”

“Chelsea have agreed with Thiago that he can join his new team-mates soon after signing a two-year contract with the Brazilian club. Thiago will be allowed to train with Fluminense before registering his transfer on July 1.”

Silva joined his childhood team Fluminense (Photo: X)

Thiago Silva spent two years at Fluminense’s academy between 1998 and 2000 before moving elsewhere in Brazil. He then joined the club on loan from Dynamo Moscow before making the move permanent and spending two years there between 2007 and 2009. Silva’s breakthrough came when he moved to AC Milan and enjoyed a successful spell in European football.

Silva has chosen to end his illustrious playing career in his homeland. Last week, the Brazilian confirmed his decision to leave Chelsea after four years at Stamford Bridge, in an emotional message to supporters.

 

Silva said: “Chelsea means a lot to me. I came here with the intention of staying for one year and it ended up being four years. Not just for me but for my family too.”

“My sons play for Chelsea so I’m very proud to be part of the Chelsea family – literally because my sons are here. I hope they continue their careers at this winning club where many players aspire to be a part of.”

“I think in everything I’ve done here over the last four years, I’ve always given it my all. But unfortunately, everything has a beginning, a middle and an end. That doesn’t mean it’s a definitive end. I hope that happens, leave the door open for me to come back someday, albeit in a different role. But… it’s an indescribable love. I can only say thank you.”

“Obviously, when I started here it was during the pandemic so there weren’t any fans in the stadium. But through social media it became something very special for me and then when the fans started coming back to the stadium I started to feel loved and respected.”

“Saying goodbye in normal circumstances is difficult, but when you have feelings for each other, it’s even more difficult. One day as Blue, a lifetime as Blue.”

Thiago Silva has won 30 major and minor titles in Europe in 14 years, which shows the undeniable class of the Brazilian defender. At the age of 39, joining a less harsh football environment may be the best choice for this flamboyant center-back.