"A day full of emotions. Thank you all for this incredible farewell," Thiago Silva posted on social media hours after playing his last game for Chelsea.
"It has been an exciting four years in which we have touched glory by winning a Champions League, but where we have also gone through difficult times.
"We have celebrated and suffered, but always together and with your unwavering support. The strength of this great club lies in the union of all of us who make it up.
"I would like to thank all of my teammates, coaches, technical staff, doctors, kit men and the rest of the club's workers who have made my time here unforgettable. And, of course, to all the Blues, who have supported me from the first day I arrived.
"Unfortunately, our paths are now parting, but hopefully in the future I can continue to help the club in another way. My sons will continue to wear this shirt with pride and hopefully they can make it far. The Silva family will be eternally grateful to this club and to all of you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Chelsea. Once a Blue, forever Blue."
Thiago Silva joined Chelsea aged 35, and no one expected him to stick around for as long as he did.
However, he became a pillar of the team for four seasons and helped them win three major trophies, including the Champions League in his first season here.
His sons Isago da Silva and Iago da Silva have both played for Chelsea's academy for four years as well and look set to stay there even after his father's return to Brazil.
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