Updated: 22 May 2026 16:03 BST |
4 min read
Chelsea have reportedly offered Thiago Silva the chance to join their coaching staff this summer following his exit from FC Porto.
The Brazil legend spent four years as a player at Stamford Bridge from 2020 to 2024, and he played a pivotal role as they won the Champions League trophy under Thomas Tuchel back in 2021.
He departed upon the expiration of his contract following Mauricio Pochettino’s sole campaign in charge of the west London giants and after an 18-month spell at Fluminense, Silva completed a Bosman deal to Porto in January.
The 41-year-old made 14 appearances for Francesco Farioli’s side before the end of the campaign, helping them claim a first Portuguese top flight title since 2022, and he was offered the chance to sign a contract extension at the club following an impressive, albeit short, stint.
However, Silva is understood to have rejected the opportunity to remain at Porto and he is now assessing his options amid reported transfer interest from former club AC Milan, who want to bring him back to San Siro this summer.
Chelsea have also been linked with a sensational move for the veteran Brazilian, amid their pursuit of a new centre-back and their lack of experience in defence, but the Blues are keen to bring Silva back to the club in a coaching capacity, rather than a playing one.
That is according to ESPN Brazil reporter Bruno Andrade, who claims that Chelsea have already “invited” Silva to return to the club this summer.
It’s reported that Chelsea’s offer to Silva revolves around him helping the academy in a coaching role, before gradually progressing through the club up to the first-team over time.
Silva already holds a UEFA B license coaching badge and his family currently live in London, which would undoubtedly make the prospect of returning to Chelsea an appealing one, especially as his son Isago plays for the Blues’ U18 side.
Analysis: Why Chelsea should bring back Thiago Silva
While Chelsea are reportedly planning for Silva to join their academy coaching staff, a better idea may be for him to aid the development of the senior centre-backs on their books.
The Brazilian is one of the best defenders of his generation and given Chelsea’s relative weakness in that area of the pitch, having his experience and guidance would undoubtedly help the youthful squad at Stamford Bridge.
Players such as Jorrel Hato and Wesley Fofana would certainly benefit from Silva’s help with defensive positioning, while Levi Colwill could also improve as a player if he receives some useful tips from the Brazilian.
Bringing him back to the club in a playing capacity may also not be the worst idea, with Silva able to significantly raise standards in training.
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