It’s not every day that a club legend lines up against his former team – especially one who still holds the club so close to his heart. But that’s exactly what will happen when Thiago Silva leads Fluminense out to face Chelsea in the semi-finals of the Club World Cup in New Jersey.
Silva, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest centre-backs in Chelsea history, spent four glorious years at Stamford Bridge after arriving from Paris Saint-Germain in August 2020. The Brazilian veteran made over 150 appearances in Blue, winning the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and the 2021 Club World Cup.
His emotional farewell in May 2024 marked the end of an era – but it didn’t break his connection with the club.
Now 40 and captaining Fluminense, Silva admits the clash with Chelsea will be personal, even if he has only one priority on the night.
“It will be special if we manage to eliminate Chelsea, even with all the affection I have for them. But when we’re facing each other, there’s not much else to do – we have to fight for our team,” Silva told Globo Esporte during Monday’s press conference.
This isn’t just another game for Silva – it’s a showdown involving former teammates, familiar faces, and a club he still visits.
“I was in London a short time ago to visit my sons and ended up going to Chelsea’s training sessions. Of course, I can’t give everything away, but we’re prepared for this match,” he added.
Though now in Brazil, Silva maintains close ties with the Chelsea squad, regularly chatting with many of the players. That closeness may have given Fluminense an edge in their preparation.
“I don’t know Maresca very well, but I know many of the players. I talk to some of them almost every week. Some are very close to me,” he revealed.
“I’ve been helping the coaching staff with small details, things that will stay between us.”
And make no mistake, Silva’s vast experience across elite clubs makes this moment particularly historic. With this Club World Cup semi-final, the Brazilian has now captained three of the four teams involved – Chelsea, PSG, and now Fluminense. Only Real Madrid stands apart.
Despite his competitive edge and commitment to Fluminense’s cause, Silva hasn’t forgotten where his loyalties lie once the final whistle blows.
“After the Club World Cup, I’ll go back to supporting Chelsea and PSG as always.”
The game kicks off at 20:00 BST on Tuesday at the MetLife Stadium.