The end comes even to those who age like fine wine
Reading Time: 2min | Mon. 30.10.23. | 22:29
Brazilian veteran Thiago Silva admits the day of retirement is upon him
Thiago Silva has recently discussed his retirement plans while his Chelsea contract is approaching its expiry next June. Three years ago, the Brazilian international arrived at Stamford Bridge on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain and became an instant hero.
Even though he turned 39 in September, Silva continues to be a vital part of Mauricio Pochettino's defence this season. The Blues are currently dealing with defensive shortages due to long-term injuries to Wesley Fofana, along with issues affecting Benoit Badiashile and Trevoh Chalobah. In response to Fofana's injury in the last transfer window, Axel Disasi was brought in from Monaco. However, it appears that Chelsea may need to acquire yet another centre-back in the coming months. Despite being linked to a return to Brazil for the 2023/24 season, Silva's departure from Chelsea did not materialize.
The Blues are on the lookout for a new defender, especially with expectations that Chalobah will be sold in January. Bayer Leverkusen's Edmond Tapsoba has been mentioned as a candidate worth monitoring for a potential transfer to Chelsea. If Chalobah indeed leaves and Silva leaves at the end of the season, it would leave Pochettino with Fofana, Badiashile, Disasi, and Levi Colwill as his options for centre-back. Given the injury concerns in that position, a move to acquire Tapsoba would be a prudent decision for the Chelsea manager.
Now, Silva has shared his thoughts about his future and indicated that he might retire at Stamford Bridge, considering that his children are involved with the club and settled in London.
"The end of my career is getting closer... it's not easy. You've to think about when you want to retire, where you go as a final club, the family; my kids play at Chelsea. I'm just focused on enjoying my final year of contract at Chelsea. I don't know what's gonna happen next year, but I'm very happy with my career."
Pochettino needs to start planning for the post-Silva era, as the veteran defender's contract expires in just eight months.
