David Silva has ended his three-year retirement by signing a short-term contract with Hong Kong Premier League club Supreme Cha Tin.
The former Manchester City and Real Sociedad midfielder, who is 40, announced his retirement in July 2023 after suffering a serious injury while playing for Real Sociedad. His final appearance in European football came against Almeria.
Silva has now decided to return to the game, following in the footsteps of Brazilian great Ronaldinho, who also made a professional comeback after initially retiring.
Supreme Cha Tin confirmed the surprise move on its official Instagram account, writing: “Our founders have struck a huge stroke of luck with this signing!”
The club also announced special benefits for supporters, including access to behind-the-scenes content and exclusive training sessions involving the World Cup-winning star.
Silva is expected to make his first official appearance for Supreme Cha Tin in November. He will join fellow Spaniard Aitor Aldalur, whose signing was announced by the club a few days ago.
The move is being described as the biggest signing in Hong Kong football since Uruguay legend Diego Forlan joined Kitchee in 2018.
Silva’s return brings back memories of the high-profile comebacks made by some of football’s biggest names, particularly in unusual club experiences across Asia and Latin America.
Silva spent a decade at Manchester City, where he became one of the club’s most influential players, before moving to Real Sociedad. He ended his playing career after the injury sustained in 2023, but has now been tempted back on to the pitch by Supreme Cha Tin’s offer.
Ronaldinho also caused a major surprise with his return to professional football, joining Italian third-tier club Ravenna FC. His comeback became one of several unusual late-career moves involving celebrated former players.
The agreement with Supreme Cha Tin is short-term, with Silva’s first match expected to take place in November. The club has positioned the signing as a landmark moment for Hong Kong football and is planning exclusive opportunities for supporters to follow the former Manchester City and Real Sociedad player during his return.