"Nobody should be following by example" ran one national paper after Thiago Silva's error in Chelsea's 3-3 draw against West Brom in 2020. Another publication went on to say that he 'was once world class' but 'his impact and ability in recent years has been dramatically overstated' in recent years.
It was questioned whether he really was past it was just seeking a nice payday in the twilight of his career. He could be a valuable teacher but not a genuine presence or useful player on the pitch. More than two-and-a-half years on from that night and Silva is arguably the best in his position in the league.
For long stretches of his 73 game Premier League stint Silva has been the outstanding defender. William Saliba has been mighty this season whilst Lisandro Martinez has also adapted brilliantly to life in England. Silva's calmness on the ball and off it is perhaps lost slightly in the mess Chelsea have been this season.
