Central defender Thiago Silva will return to Fluminense after succeeding for 16 years in European football, playing for top-level clubs such as AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea, as announced by the Brazilian team on Tuesday.

The 39-year-old center-back signed a contract with the Rio-based club until June 2026, joining the team where he began his career and will join once his contract with Chelsea ends at the conclusion of the European season, approximately in a month.

"Grit, skill, and vigor," described "Flu," the 2023 Copa Libertadores champion, announcing the anticipated return of the "Moleque de Xerém," whom they referred to as a "world football legend."

However, Silva will only be able to make his debut with the "Tricolor de Río" starting July 10, when the next transfer market opens.

Born in Rio de Janeiro, Silva developed in Fluminense's youth ranks from the age of 11 to 18.