Thiago Silva has hit out at recent reports that he wants to leave Chelsea and return to boyhood club Fluminense and insists he will see out the next year of his contract at Stamford Bridge.
The 38-year-old, who signed a one-year extension in February, has been linked with an emotional move back to the club where he revived his career in 2006 after contracting tuberculosis during his stint at Dynamo Moscow.
But Silva has now rubbished suggestions he will speak to Chelsea about quitting the west London club, though he remains keen to finish his career back in Rio de Janeiro at some point.
Speaking to ESPN Brasil after Saturday’s disappointing 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest, Silva said: “I have a contract here, right?
“It’s strange, because several things have come out [in the media] and fans become very passionate. Some curse me on social media, others say “Come soon” and some say “If you don’t come now, don’t come at all”.
“It’s even boring for me. It’s been only two months since I renewed with Chelsea, if I’m not mistaken, and I’ve always fulfilled my contracts.
“I only won’t stay here if Chelsea decide they don’t want me for next season, or if the new coach arrives and doesn’t want me to stay.
“I intend to fulfil the contract that I signed until next year and then, next year, we’ll see what happens.”
Fluminense return on cards for Silva – but not yet
As to whether he has actually spoken to Fluminense recently, Silva added: “I’ve always followed them since I left, I’ve always stayed very close. Every time I’m on vacation I go there, I do my training there. I have several friends there.
“There are many messages getting sent, saying ‘Come back soon’. There is great anxiety from them, especially when things are coming out in the press, some untruths.
“I even said to my wife, ‘I don’t know what meeting they’re talking about claiming I’m close to a return’ – there’s nothing!
“I spoke with [Fluminense president] Mario [Bittencourt] yes, in January. I spoke with Mario and [director of sports planning] Fred, I spoke about my position and my desires.
“After that meeting, I still signed my renewal with Chelsea. In fact, that’s exactly what was said at the meeting, that, after another year, there would certainly be a desire to return. And not just to end my career there, but to add something.”
The news of Silva remaining for the final year of his contract will come a huge lift to incoming boss Mauricio Pochettino, with a report on Saturday revealing that the appointment has now been agreed.
Having a steadying influence like Silva available at the back is something that the Argentine will be able to lean on as he deals with a squad, and indeed club, in transition.
The Blues are back in action next Sunday when they head to Manchester City in the Premier League.
