Chelsea star explains Thiago Silva impact on his career

Chelsea captain Reece James has revealed the profound and lasting influence of former teammate Thiago Silva, highlighting that the veteran defender continues to mentor him despite having left Stamford Bridge.

Silva, who enjoyed a celebrated four-year spell with the Blues from 2020 to 2024, became a fan favourite and was instrumental in the club's 2021 Champions League triumph.

Now 41 and playing for Fluminense in his native Brazil, the centre-back's impact is still felt within the Chelsea dressing room.

James shared a dressing room with Silva for four seasons and named the Brazilian as the most significant influence on his professional development.

In an interview with BBC Sport, James explained the nature of Silva's guidance.

"I would say Thiago Silva," he said when asked about the biggest impact on his career.

"He is nearly old enough to be my dad and has played at the highest level for so long. He always tried to help me from the minute he arrived and still does, even now, he is not here."

The Chelsea skipper elaborated on their relationship, adding, "It was little messages off the pitch. On the pitch, he would sometimes see things that I saw differently and try to paint a different picture."

Silva's connection to Chelsea remains strong, with his two sons, Isago and Iago, enrolled in the club's academy.

His 16-year-old son, Isago, signed on as a first-year scholar for the 2025-26 season.

While James no longer has Silva's veteran presence beside him in the locker room, he is developing into a leader in his own right.

Earlier in 2025, manager Enzo Maresca praised James's improving leadership qualities, a crucial attribute for the captain of a youthful squad. At 28, Tosin Adarabioyo is currently the oldest player in the first team.