Chelsea players are reportedly dissatisfied due to Mauricio Pochettino’s decision to not appoint Thiago Silva as captain in the absence of Reece James and Ben Chilwell. Silva has been a vital part of the team since joining from Paris Saint-Germain in 2020. He has played 132 games, scoring six goals and providing four assists. Although Pochettino initially made James the captain and Chilwell the deputy after Cesar Azpilicueta’s departure, both players have been plagued by injuries. This has led to discontent among the players, who believe that 39-year-old Silva, in his remarkable career, is being disrespected.
In Silva’s contract year, his continued presence and experience has been invaluable for the youthful Chelsea side. The Brazilian remains coy about his future, explaining to Globo Esporte back in October how his family’s well-being is a factor in his decision-making. As Chelsea prepare to welcome Sheffield United in the Premier League on December 16, Silva is expected to feature.