Brazilian defender Thiago Silva revealed on Tuesday his decision to return to his hometown club Fluminense after his Chelsea contract ends at the end of the season.
"I'm coming home," declared the 39-year-old Rio de Janeiro native on X, sharing a heartfelt video donning the jersey of his beloved Fluminense.
Silva's return to Fluminense comes with a two-year deal, facilitated by Chelsea, allowing him to commence training with the Copa Libertadores champions ahead of his official registration on July 1.
Fluminense expressed their excitement, stating, "He always played for your badge, as a true blue legend. Thanks for all the love you gave to our champion, Chelsea FC. Pride of London. Now it's time to come back home. Rio awaits you."
Silva's journey with Fluminense began in their youth academy, though he had to seek opportunities elsewhere to break into senior football. Returning in 2006, he secured the Copa do Brasil before departing for AC Milan in 2009.
Throughout his European career, Silva attained league titles with Milan and Paris Saint-Germain, along with the prestigious Champions League victory with Chelsea in 2021.
Known as "O Monstro" (The Monster) by Brazilian fans, Silva represented his country 113 times, triumphing in the Copa America in 2019.
Chelsea paid tribute to the former Brazil national team captain, acknowledging his impact on and off the field: "He has also forged a lasting bond with Blues supporters and was named the club's Player of the Year at the end of the 2022–23 campaign."
