Ex-Man City midfielder Silva returns to football at 40

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.

Silva, who retired in 2023 after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury during pre-season training with Real Sociedad, is set to begin a new chapter in his illustrious career.

The Spanish midfielder enjoyed a decorated spell with Manchester City, winning four Premier League titles and 11 major trophies during his 10 years at the club. He also won the 2010 World Cup and two European Championships with Spain.

Silva said he was excited about returning to football and experiencing life in Hong Kong.

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

Sha Tin confirmed that Silva will initially focus on settling into the squad and regaining match fitness before making his competitive debut.

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,” the club said.

Sha Tin are currently eighth in the Hong Kong Premier League after four matches and are scheduled to face Hong Kong Football Club on October 18.

Silva’s return comes two years after he announced his retirement following a career that established him as one of the most accomplished midfielders of his generation.

The former Spain international also has a statue outside Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium in recognition of his decade-long contribution to the club.