“The legendary Brazilian defender signed a short-term contract.”, — write: football.ua
The legendary Brazilian defender signed a short-term contract.
Thiago Silva, getty images 05 January 2026, 13:43
𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐟🐾🐢🐧🏡💙 Estás em casa, Thiago 🤝#SeguimosJuntos pic.twitter.com/DGg9RRzahC
— FC Porto (@FCPorto) January 5, 2026
Silva was expected to hang up his boots after an emotional return to Rio de Janeiro in 2024, but the former Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain captain proved his appetite for the game at a high level remains intact. The contract with Porto runs until the end of the 2025/26 season.
Silva arrived on a private jet where he was met by club representatives and fans. In a video released by the club, the defender addressed the fans: “Hello Portista, I’m in Porto after almost 22 years. I’m very happy and hope to see you soon.”
— FC Porto (@FCPorto) January 5, 2026
Porto coach Farioli described the signing of Silva as a “tactical breakthrough”, with the experienced defender helping to orchestrate a high-level attack, stabilize the defense and provide leadership following a serious injury to Neuen Perez. Despite his age, Silva played 46 matches in 2025 for Fluminense and showed excellent physical data.
This transfer has a special meaning for Silva and personally for the city of Porto. It was here in 2004 that he signed his first European contract with Juventuda, but due to illness and health problems, his debut almost did not take place. Returning at the age of 41 allows Silva to rewrite his own history and continue fighting at the highest level.