THIAGO SILVA was given a hero’s welcome when he paid a visit to Chelsea’s Cobham training ground this week.
The veteran Brazilian emotionally left Stamford Bridge when his contract ended at the end of last season.
And Chelsea’s staff were thrilled to see the classy centre-back when popped in for a cheeky visit on Tuesday.
Silva wrote on Instagram: “It’s always a pleasure to return to this special place. Thank you for your continuous affection.
“The feeling is mutual. See you soon! ”
The 39-year-old signed a two-year deal with Fluminense in his native Brazil, with supportive wife Belle staying in London for the time being.
The couple’s sons Isago, 15, and Iago, 13, are both on the books at Chelsea’s academy.
Silva wrote to his family in another social media post: “It was an amazing few days with you guys here.
“Soon we’ll be together again. Best of me, love you guys ”
Chelsea fans were delighted to see their cult hero back in Surrey, with one writing: “There’s only one Thiago Silva! So glad to see him return.”
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Frank Lampard also commented on his post with: “”, while another supporter added: “Our legend is back home.”
Silva cleared out his private box at Stamford Bridge in August after calling time on his four-year spell in West London.
The 39-year-old’s emotional wife Belle recorded herself getting one last look at the now empty room in SW6.
She wrote on Instagram last month: “Four years at Chelsea 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.”
Belle became the Premier League’s most outspoken Wag after a number of controversial social media posts last season.
Silva is also eyeing a stunning return to Chelsea once he hangs up his boots.
But the Blues’ co-controlling owners Behdad Eghbali and Todd Boehly are at loggerheads and want to buy each other out.
Their professional relationship has deteriorated to a point where they can no longer work together as their decisions are split on a power-sharing committee.
Silva joined Chelsea in 2020 from French giants Paris Saint-Germain, having also previously spent three years at AC Milan.
During his time with in the Premier League, Silva won the Champions League, the Club World Cup and the Super Cup.
