Thiago Silva's swansong? Veteran Chelsea defender drops major hint on his future as the end of his contract edges closer

The 39-year-old's contract at Stamford Bridge will expire at the end of the season and there is no indication of him being offered an extension. The centre-back claims he has not yet made a decision on his future, but is aware that his playing days are approaching an end.

"I don’t have anything scheduled for later. There’s nothing scheduled here. I’m just looking to have fun," he told reporters after Chelsea's 6-1 win over Middlesbrough in the Carabao Cup semi-finals. "We know [my career] is almost over, but it’s not the end yet, so pick the right time. I’m still able to maintain a good performance. My numbers are good. This gives me peace of mind to continue. Now, the future belongs to God. Let’s finish well here, this and those four months and see what has to happen going forward. But I’m super relaxed about that.

"My relationship with the Chelsea fans] is a source of great pride. In such a short time I managed to conquer them in such a passionate way. We can say that, right? It was very, very fast and I am happy every time I play here. It’s different and special and emotional. I know that with each game that ends I have a feeling that it’s ending, so that makes me a little sad. But happy with the performance on the field, which is the most important."

Silva remains a key player for the Blues under Mauricio Pochettino despite his age, having played 20 of their 21 Premier League games in the 2023-24 campaign. The London side are said to be in the market to find a younger option to take his place at the end of the season, having highlighted Bayer Leverkusen's Jonathan Tah as a candidate.

Silva will see out the rest of the season with the Premier League team as he comes to a decision regarding his next step. The ex-AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain star could opt to retire or may seek another club should Chelsea decide against offering him a new deal.