Age or experience? Thiago Silva covers least ground for Fluminense | OneFootball

First of all, in Brazilian football, the FIFA international break is seen by clubs as a good opportunity to give their players some rest and work calmly and with proper planning with the squad. For Fluminense, who are enjoying a great campaign in the Brazilian Championship and have qualified for the Copa Libertadores semifinals, this period will be no different.

The team coached by Marcão had some time off, but has already returned to training, focusing on the remainder of the season. It is important to note that some players receive special attention, both in training and on matchdays. At 41 years old, captain Thiago Silva continues to stand out for his quality and physical strength.

However, the defender also receives special care. Since his return to the club, Fluminense have put together a plan for the player. For example, he does not take the field in every match. That was the case recently, when he did not play in the Brasileirão in order to be in top condition for the Copa Libertadores.

Thiago Silva also hardly ever plays on artificial turf. The situation should change in the second leg of the Copa Libertadores semifinal, when Fluminense will face Palmeiras at Nubank Parque. After all, his presence on the pitch commands respect from the opposition and gives the group even more confidence.

Thiago Silva’s positioning draws attention

Thiago Silva has always been praised for his ability to anticipate plays. Over time, that trait has ended up standing out even more in Fluminense’s captain. Perhaps that explains the roughly 7.7 km covered by the player per match on average (according to Sofascore) in the club’s games.

These figures place Thiago Silva among the players with the lowest mileage during a Fluminense match. Even so, he remains one of the team’s standout performers this season thanks to his positioning, reading of the game, and anticipation.

The data further reinforces his importance to the group. A coach on the pitch, as he is called by his teammates, the defender will be an important piece for the squad in the two decisive matches against Palmeiras, a possible Copa Libertadores final, and the final stretch of the Brasileirão.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.