Thiago Silva’s Move to FC Porto and Near Return to AC Milan

Thiago Silva, the Brazilian centre-back, played a pivotal role in leading Fluminense to the semi-finals of the Club World Cup in July and made 46 appearances across all competitions last season. Earlier in December, the 41-year-old opted for an early termination of his contract, which had six months remaining, to pursue a final chapter in Europe as he seeks to conclude his illustrious career. Subsequently, Silva signed with FC Porto, where he expressed feeling “happy and flattered” to have the opportunity to return to Europe and continue competing at the highest level. However, Porto was not his only potential destination; there was a more sentimental option that was briefly considered.

Former Milan striker Antonio Cassano disclosed that Silva was on the verge of a remarkable homecoming to Italy, but the proposal was ultimately dismissed by coach Massimiliano Allegri. In a discussion on the Viva El Futbol channel, Cassano revealed that this decision contradicted the wishes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who currently serves as an advisor to Milan’s board. Ibrahimovic had advocated strongly for Silva’s return, recognizing him as a low-risk, high-impact addition to the squad. The Brazilian was willing to come back on a free transfer and did not demand a lucrative salary, making the offer particularly appealing to the club’s management.

“To Milan fans, I want to clarify that Thiago Silva did not arrive primarily because Allegri vetoed the signing, despite Ibrahimovic’s support for it. He could have joined the team,” Cassano stated. “Zlatan had given his full endorsement to signing him on a free transfer, even though Thiago was not asking for a significant salary.”

Cassano also mentioned that Silva made a final effort to engage Allegri directly in hopes of reviving the possibility of his return. “Thiago, being a high-caliber individual, personally called Allegri, who informed him that he was seeking a striker,” he remarked. “Mr. Massimiliano Allegri declined and firmly closed the door on Thiago Silva’s potential return to Milan.”

Silva’s motivation for returning to Europe was influenced not only by his professional aspirations but also by familial considerations. He aimed to settle as close to London as possible, allowing him to remain near his family and eldest son, Isago, who recently signed his first professional contract with Chelsea. This connection emphasizes Silva’s enduring relationship with England, where he enjoyed significant success at Stamford Bridge, including winning the Champions League in 2021 and establishing himself as a respected leader known for his professionalism.

Silva’s European career commenced with Porto in the 2004-05 season, albeit with limited opportunities primarily in the second tier. He subsequently built a reputation as one of football’s finest defenders with Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea, accumulating numerous domestic titles and individual honors throughout his journey. Now back in Portugal, Silva is anticipated to make his debut for Porto against Santa Clara on January 4. Beyond the immediate challenge at Porto, he is focused on the international stage, hoping that a strong performance in Europe will keep him in contention for Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad for the World Cup next summer.