Ex-Manchester City midfielder David Silva returns to football at 40
Spread the word Former Manchester City midfielder David Silva has come out of retirement at the age of 40 to return to professional football with Hong Kong Premier League club Sha Tin. The former Spain international, who retired from football in 2023, is set to begin another chapter of his illustrious career after agreeing to join the Hong Kong-based club.
Silva's retirement came after he suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury during pre-season training with Real Sociedad. The injury brought an end to his playing career at the time, but three years later, the veteran midfielder is preparing to return to competitive football.
The Spaniard is widely regarded as one of the finest midfielders of his generation, having enjoyed a hugely successful career at both club and international levels. Silva begins new chapter in Hong Kong Silva spent 10 years at Manchester City, where he became a central figure in the club's transformation into one of England's dominant teams.
During his decade at the Etihad Stadium, he won four Premier League titles and 11 major trophies, while also earning widespread recognition for his technical ability, vision and creativity in midfield. His performances for City established him as a fan favourite and one of the most influential players in the club's modern history.
Silva also enjoyed considerable success with Spain, helping the national team win the 2010 FIFA World Cup and two European Championships. 'I'm so excited to go to Hong Kong' Speaking about his return, Silva said he was excited about experiencing life in Hong Kong and returning to the football pitch.
"I'm so excited to go to Hong Kong and enjoy the local culture, the food in Sha Tin and, of course, football in Hong Kong," Silva said in a video posted on his Instagram on Wednesday. His move to Sha Tin will see him experience a new football environment after spending most of his professional career in Europe.
The club said Silva would not immediately be thrown into competitive action, explaining that he would first settle into the squad and work towards regaining full match fitness. "David Silva will be in Hong Kong soon to settle in, link up with squad training, and build up to peak match fitness before making his pitch debut," Sha Tin said.
Silva targets competitive debut Sha Tin currently sit eighth in the Hong Kong Premier League after four matches and are scheduled to face Hong Kong Football Club on October 18. Silva's availability for that fixture will depend on his fitness and how quickly he settles into training with his new teammates.
His return is nevertheless expected to attract considerable attention, given his reputation and the success he enjoyed during his playing career. The 40-year-old retired after a career that included spells with Valencia, Manchester City and Real Sociedad, among others.