Fluminense defender Thiago Silva has issued a warning to former club Chelsea ahead of their FIFA Club World Cup semi-final clash on Tuesday night.
Silva, who spent four years at Stamford Bridge before returning to Brazil in 2024, said Fluminense are fully prepared for the high-stakes encounter and that he is using his inside knowledge of Chelsea to aid his team.
Speaking to Ge Globo via Chelsea Chronicle, the Brazilian veteran said:
“The expectations are high, the anxiety is high. I’m helping the coaching staff with some key details—things that will stay between us.”
Silva revealed he recently returned to London briefly and visited Chelsea’s training ground, adding:
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“Of course, we can’t give too much away, but we are prepared for this match. That’s what matters.”
He praised Fluminense’s passionate fan base, describing the club as having a “special aura” heading into the clash, and hinted that his familiarity with many Chelsea players could give Fluminense an edge.
“I don’t know Maresca [Chelsea’s head coach] that well, but I still speak regularly with many of the players—they are close friends,” Silva said.
Silva joined Chelsea from Paris Saint-Germain in 2020 and left in 2024 after a successful spell that included a UEFA Champions League title.
