He has faced the likes of the very best strikers in the business. From Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Lionel Messi to Didier Drogba and Cristiano Ronaldo, Thiago Silva has played with and against some of the most fantastic footballers this generation.
Ever since moving to Chelsea from Paris, Silva has appeared twenty-one times for the Blues. The thigh injury he sustained against Tottenham has sat him out for most of Chelsea’s matches under Tuchel. But now he is close to making a return and was on the bench for Everton’s clash.
Ahead of Chelsea’s visit to Elland Road to face Leeds United, Silva spoke to the official Chelsea website on the best strikers he’s faced in his glorious career.
‘Class, intelligence, technique and magic’ are the four words the veteran used to describe the cream of the crop he’s faced.
“The ten strongest & most difficult players that I had the chance to play against are: Di Maria, because of his technical quality and his incredible left foot. Mbappe, because of his speed and technical quality as well,” he said.
Adding further, Silva said:
“Drogba, because of his physical strength & despite being incredibly strong, he still has a lot of technical skill. Firmino, very intelligent in his movement that leaves defenders a bit lost. Romario, his intelligence in the box. He’s the best I’ve seen in the box.
Moving on to his top five list of best forwards:
“Adriano, like Drogba, he’s an incredible force with an unbelievable powerful left-foot penalty shot. I’m going to say Ibrahimovic because he is someone who inspired me. I had the chance to play with and against him. He’s the fourth best in my list.”
Silva’s top three comes as no surprise.
“Neymar then, because of his class, intelligence and magic. He has technical quality and ability to create out of nowehere,” he added.
“Second, Cristiano Ronaldo. His professionalism, dedication and passion for football. I admire him for his commitment and everything he has achieved. First, Messi, because he has incredible quality and a God-given gift. Also, because of the professional he is. For me he is the best.”
Silva spoke of one more player, who is considered by some as the best ever No.9.
“I could also mention Ronaldo the Phenomenon but I didn’t have the opportunity to play with or against him,” said Silva.
The Chelsea defender is now 36-years-old and possesses unrivalled experience under his belt. His presence will prove to be vital in Chelsea’s run across three competitions.