(Football news) Ahead of the 2020–21 season, which was marred by the coronavirus epidemic, Chelsea pulled off one of the transfer window’s greatest coups by signing the veteran Paris Saint-Germain player for nothing.
At first, the 36-year-old Silva would find it difficult to adjust to life in the Premier League; on his debut, Chelsea notoriously trailed West Bromwich Albion 3-0 at halftime.
Chelsea would bounce back to draw 3–3 at The Hawthorns, and after that they would concede just twice in the following six matches that Silva started, culminating in a season that saw them win their second Champions League title against Manchester City.
Although the Brazil international has since gone on to make 151 appearances in all competitions, also winning a UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup, Chelsea’s stature has dropped in recent seasons.
Furthermore, owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital have targeted young players with potential in the transfer market, Silva the elder statesman in the dressing room by eight years.
How have Silva, Chelsea marked the defender’s exit?
However, that will no longer be the case next season with Silva confirming reports that he will not be renewing his contract with the West Londoners.
In an emotional video posted through the club’s official accounts, Silva revealed that he only intended on staying at Chelsea for one year before developing what he says was an “indescribable love” for the West Londoners.
What now for Silva?
At the weekend, Silva suffered an injury during the closing stages of the 2-2 draw at Aston Villa, head coach Mauricio Pochettino suggesting that it was a recurrence of a groin issue.
As a result, it remains to be seen whether Silva has played his final game for the club with less than three weeks of the season remaining.
Chelsea play Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, Nottingham Forest, Brighton & Hove Albion and Bournemouth in their closing five fixtures, the final encounter taking place on May 19.
Reports have suggested that Silva could now return to former club Fluminense, having started his career at the Maracana.
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