Thiago Silva had wanted to sign a contract extension with Chelsea before he opted to return to Brazilian club Fluminense according to reports.
Silva announced in an emotional fair well message last month he would be leaving Chelsea at the end of the season after four years at Stamford Bridge.
The Brazilian established himself as a key part of the side which won the club’s second Champions League title in 2021, and also won the European Super Cup and Club World Cup during his time in west London.
Silva wanted to extend his contract at Chelsea
Chelsea officially confirmed on Tuesday afternoon that the 39-year-old had signed a two year contract with Fluminense and will join up with his new team-mates after the final game of the season against Bournemouth.
It means Silva will quite fittingly bring the curtain down on his amazing career at the club where it started all the way back in 1998.
However London World have reported Silva did in fact want to extend his stay at Chelsea and sign a new deal but after prolonged negotiations it was decided he would return to Brazil and his kids would remain in the Chelsea academy.
Silva fully embraced everything it meant to play for Chelsea and has created a special bond with the club’s fans during his time with the Blues.
The Brazilian is reportedly set to be named captain for the final game of the season against Bournemouth in what is sure to be an emotional send off for one of the legends of the game.
The veteran defender has made over 150 appearances for the club and stated in his farewell message that he only expected to stay a year.
He could end up playing against Chelsea in the 2025 Club World Cup with Fluminense joining the Blues in the tournament.
Silva’s focus will now be on Chelsea’s final three games, starting with Saturday’s trip to Nottingham Forest, as the Blues aim to secure a top six finish and Europa League football for next season.
Sorry to see Tiago leave Chelsea. Have enjoyed the years he has been with us. Will be sorely missed.
Best wishes for happy future and hope to see him in years to come.