“Football that I didn’t like” – Thiago Silva reveals shift from NEVER wanting to join Premier League to embracing it because of Pep Guardiola

Thiago Silva has made 20 appearances for Chelsea this season.

“Football that I didn’t like” – Thiago Silva reveals shift from NEVER wanting to join Premier League to embracing it because of Pep Guardiola

Thiago Silva (L) exclaimed that Pep Guradiola (R) influenced his decision to join Premier League. (Image via Tribuna and beIN Sports)

In a recent ESPN interview, Thiago Silva surprisingly confessed to not being a big fan of the Premier League initially. However, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola‘s influence altered Silva’s perspective, ultimately influencing his decision to join Chelsea.

The former PSG stalwart, esteemed as one of the finest defenders, is recognized for his defensive skills, discipline, and leadership. Signing for Chelsea as a free transfer from Paris at 36, Silva has accumulated 137 appearances and netted 6 goals. In his debut season, he secured the UEFA Champions League and the Club World Cup. Now in his fourth Premier League season at 39, Silva and his team are in a challenging phase, sitting 10th in the EPL, trailing their main competitors significantly.

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Following Thiago Silva’s 100th appearance for Chelsea against Crystal Palace, the 39-year-old shared his thoughts on reaching this significant milestone in an interview with ESPN. Thiago expressed surprise at the idea of joining the Premier League, admitting he initially disliked its style of football. He believed there was an excessive emphasis on aerial duels, which didn’t align with his preferences.

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Further, Silva credited Guardiola for influencing his decision to play in the league due to his team’s style of play, which focused on a more attractive and possession-based football. 

No man, no. I never imagined I would play in the Premier League one day. It was one, with all due respect, football that I didn’t like. Because I thought it was a lot of aerial balls, get up here, fight there. I think one of those responsible for this change, I think, is Pep Guardiola, right? He plays more. The others don’t try to copy but they look to play more. Because this is beautiful football to watch.
Thiago Silva told ESPN joining the Premier League

At Guardiola’s urging, the Brazilian opted to join Chelsea after the club approached him with an offer. Silva credited the City boss with clubs in England adopting more possession-based brands of football.

Chelsea are reportedly prepared to part ways with Thiago Silva next summer

Recent reports indicate that the Premier League giants are considering parting ways with their veteran defender and former captain, Thiago Silva, during the 2024 summer transfer window. The 39-year-old Brazilian international, currently in the last six months of his contract, is anticipated to head back to his childhood club, Fluminense.

Thiago Silva may depart Chelsea to return to Brazil in the summer of 2024
Thiago Silva may depart Chelsea to return to Brazil in the summer of 2024. (Image via Chelseafc.com)

The 39-year-old has been a crucial part of Chelsea’s lineup, contributing to their success, notably winning the UCL in his debut season. However, Chelsea has faced a decline since the 2021-22 season despite his consistent performances. The player is eager to reunite with his former club during the upcoming summer transfer window.

Yet, there’s uncertainty regarding Chelsea’s decision on whether to retain him. The player’s age, nearing 40 by the next season, might factor into the west London club’s choice to part ways with him.

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