Thiago Silva leaves Porto with title, Luuk de Jong set to follow | OneFootball

Thiago Silva, 41, has left Porto with the national title, his contract ending without the renewal option being taken. Back for a second spell, he arrived in January, featured in 14 matches and missed a personal aim of a Brazil World Cup call-up.

According to O Jogo, Luuk de Jong will be the next to depart, a decision made despite an option to extend. The 35-year-old finished the season injured and, after tearful celebrations, is set to return to the Netherlands and is expected to retire.

In his farewell, Thiago reflected that the months were worth it and singled out the Casa Pia defeat as pivotal in the run-in. He said experienced figures, including Diogo Costa, Cláudio Ramos, Pepê and Bednarek, steadied the dressing room after that first league loss and a frank internal reckoning.

He thanked supporters for their affection and respect and added that, even at 41, he learned from Farioli and his staff. He praised the title party for its organisation and calm, calling the day unforgettable.

Looking ahead, he is leaning towards retirement and a move into coaching and believes this closes a victorious cycle rather than a goodbye. André Villas-Boas lauded his influence on the pitch and in the dressing room, describing him as essential to Porto’s 31st title and stressing the doors will remain open.

Source: O Jogo