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Thiago Silva clarifies his position about Chelsea’s future.
Chelsea centre-back Thiago Silva has refuted rumours that he could consider leaving Stamford Bridge this summer in favour of a move back to Brazil.
A return to Fluminense for the 38-year-old Silva may be in the works following a slump in form for the player who was recently named the player of the season by a wide margin for Chelsea. This is despite the fact that Silva extended his contract in West London back in February until 2024.
After Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest, Silva sought to put the matter to rest by stating unequivocally that he had no intention of leaving Chelsea this summer.
“I have a contract here [at Chelsea], right?” he told ESPN. “It’s even strange, because several things are coming out [in the media] and it turns out that the fans [of Fluminense] are in love.
“Some even curse me on social networks, others say ‘come soon’, others they say ‘if you don’t come now, don’t come anymore’.
“It’s even boring for me, but I renewed with Chelsea, if I’m not mistaken.
“I’ve always fulfilled my contracts. I won’t stay here if Chelsea don’t want me for next year or if the new coach who arrives don’t want me to stay. I’m going to try to fulfil my contract that is signed until next year.”
Mauricio Pochettino, who will take over at the end of the current season, has finally finalized all the logistics of his impending move to Stamford Bridge, and Silva is preparing for discussions with him.
Pochettino has already had the opportunity to share his opinions about the Chelsea team as it is, and he will benefit from the return of youthful Levi Colwill, whose excellent loan to Brighton is about to expire.
Should the boss decide to part ways with Silva, a return to Fluminense is likely on the cards. The veteran defender has always admitted he wants to end his career with the Brazilian side and confessed to speaking with Fluminense officials as recently as January, shortly before he extended his stay at Chelsea.
“I spoke with Mario [Bittencourt, Fluminense president] yes, in January,” he continued. “I spoke with Mario, Marcao (assistant manager) and Fred (club director), I spoke about my position and my desire. After that meeting, I signed with Chelsea.
“In fact, that was exactly what was said at that meeting, and, after another year of extension, there would certainly be the desire to be able to return, in short, to be able to add something, and not just end my career.”