ไทย
English
中國人
Ex-Manchester City star David Silva has ended his retirement at 40 to sign with Hong Kong club Supreme Sha Tin, albeit for just a single appearance.
Silva, widely regarded as one of the finest creative midfielders of his era, claimed four Premier League titles with City and the 2010 World Cup with Spain among numerous honors, before hanging up his boots in the summer of 2023 just days after sustaining a serious knee injury.
Following three years away from the game, Silva is set to feature in the Hong Kong Premier League, where the ambitious Supreme Sha Tin announced his arrival with a statement that began: "Yo! Absolute madness!"
The announcement caught many off guard, with numerous observers questioning the reasoning behind Silva's unexpected career decision.
Silva Sets Record Straight on Surprise Hong Kong Switch
Following the confirmation of his move to Sha Tin, the iconic midfielder appeared on COPE to address the flood of questions coming his way.
Silva was quick to dismiss any notion of a full comeback, making clear he has committed to just one match with the club.
"It was reported as though I'd signed for the entire season, but no — I'm only going to play one game," Silva clarified.
The 40-year-old also brushed aside claims that financial gain is his motivation, saying: "People are quick to jump to conclusions at the slightest thing, but that's not the situation here. Things have been going well for me, thanks to my father and my advisor of 20 years, with whom we've made smart investments."
Silva runs a winery in his home island of Gran Canaria, Bodegas Tamerán, and has already made clear he has no intention of making a long-term return to football, preferring instead to focus on his wine venture.
Sha Tin, who were unsuccessful in their pursuit of former Chelsea and Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata earlier this summer, did appear to leave the door open regarding the duration of their arrangement with Silva.
"The Spanish maestro will first suit up for one match," the club noted, seemingly holding out hope that Silva might opt to prolong his time in Hong Kong if things go well.
Silva's debut for Sha Tin appears to be penciled in for Nov. 7, when the club are scheduled to host Hong Kong Rangers in a league clash, though player-owner Jim Wong Chi-chuen told the South China Morning Post that, should Silva demonstrate his fitness, the Oct. 18 fixture against Hong Kong Football Club could serve as an earlier opportunity.