VIDEO: Thiago Silva's wife Belle bids emotional farewell to Chelsea fans after being serenaded with famous chant at the pub

After four memorable years at Stamford Bridge, during which he became a Champions League winner, Silva has announced that he will be severing ties with the Blues. At 39 years of age, the classy defender is returning to his roots at Fluminense.

Silva has taken in over 150 appearances for Chelsea and been a model of consistency for them at a time in which stability and continuity has often been hard to find. He has become a cult hero in west London, while his partner has also been taken to the hearts of many Blues supporters.

Belle was treated to another round of ‘Oh Thiago Silva’ chants during a visit to a local pub, as she fought to hold back tears, before joining her husband on the pitch at the end of a final Premier League outing against Bournemouth.

Belle posted on social media ahead of the Silvas saying goodbye to English football: “4 years at @chelseafc with @thiagosilva have been an incredible journey filled with unforgettable moments. I can only feel gratitude and love for all that we have experienced together. Chelsea, you have been more than a team for us, you have been a family, a home away from home. To the loyal fans, thank you for all the love and support, you guys made everything better! Isago and Iago will continue to defend the Blues, as Thiago embarks on a new adventure, carrying the lessons learned and the love shared at this club. Our memories will forever remain in our hearts. Once a Blue, always a Blue!”

Silva has hinted that he could return to Chelsea at some stage in the future, with the commanding centre-half expected to move into coaching once hanging up his boots – the veteran Brazil international is a student of the game who has always used tactical nous to his advantage.