Thiago Silva was unsurprisingly voted Chelsea Player of the Season by the club’s fans. The 38-year-old Brazilian defender received the honor in a ceremony ahead of the final game against Newcastle United at Stamford Bridge. A personal reward despite the bad season of his team, 12th in the Premier League.
For his third season with the Blues, Thiago Silva confirmed his importance in the team by providing a solid and intelligent presence in defense. Fans cast their vote via an online poll, and the defender won a landslide victory with 61% of the vote. He thus becomes the second Brazilian player to receive this title, after Willian in 2016.
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Enzo Fernández, who arrived in January from Benfica, finished second in the votes, followed by goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga in third place. However, it was Thiago Silva who was crowned Player of the Season, having finished second behind Mason Mount the previous year.
Despite his age, Thiago Silva has been a key player for Chelsea this season. Only Kai Havertz has played more matches than him. Along with his defensive qualities, the Brazilian often wore the captain’s armband after Jorginho’s departure.
Thiago Silva has been an important leader for the team, especially when integrating new players. Even in difficult times, he showed class and composure, confirming his status as one of the best defenders of his generation.
The explosive stats that make Thiago Silva an asset to Chelsea
The stats also show his value as the defensive mainstay of the team. In the Premier League, he made 33 interceptions, 106 clearances, won 112 one-on-one duels and blocked 28 shots, all the best figures among Chelsea players. He also displayed remarkable passing accuracy with 91.3%.
Thiago Silva started the season in the initial 11 in the first seven games, and he even contributed offensively by providing assists in two consecutive games. He was also solid in Champions League wins against his former club AC Milan.
Despite a knee injury in March and April, he returned to full form and played in every Premier League game until the last against Manchester United.
