Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher believes that Chelsea defender Thiago Silva should no longer be starting for the Blues.

Mauricio Pochettino’s side put in a strong defensive display without the Brazilian veteran against Manchester City at the weekend, with Axel Disasi and Levi Colwill selected as the centre-back partnership. As Silva’s contract is expiring at the end of the season, Carragher suggested it may be time for the changing of the guard:

“I think it makes it very difficult for Thiago Silva to come back into the team between now and the end of the season – unless someone gets injured. Chelsea have the cup final [against Liverpool] but I certainly think they have to start building something for the future. There’s not an awful lot to play for after the cup final. I think looking at those two in a partnership and maybe another young centre-back in the squad, the days of Thiago Silva playing at Chelsea have got to come to an end.”

Fans on X are very much split over whether Silva’s time as a regular starter has come to an end:

Facts!

— Ice Cold Palmer (@Isaac_adelaja1) February 18, 2024

Jamie said it all 👏🏻

— Olanrewaju (@LarryJ_95) February 18, 2024

Thiago is our 1st choice my guy he is the captain of that ship

— Munashe C. Chiyadzwa (@CC78641327) February 18, 2024

Sad but have to accepted

— 태도불량 (@No7ANTOINE1) February 18, 2024

Typical Englishman who doesn’t have a clue on how to be a good defender

— Dike Clinton Chisom (@DikeClinton10) February 18, 2024

We don’t need him
Like i always say, he should be release so the young lads can improve in that defence line

— L.S Pot A bu (@Lummy80820577) February 18, 2024

You play one good game and everybody will make you feel like you are the best in the world, one bad game and they will make you feel like you are the worst Player in the world

— Skillionz (@E_Skillionz) February 18, 2024

Silva has proven himself at the highest level at Chelsea

The 39-year-old has been one of the best centre-halves in the world over the last 15 to 20 years. Despite his age, he has continued to put in great performances since arriving in London, helping the Blues secure the Champions League in 2021.

In contrast, Disasi and Colwill still have a lot to prove. It is, therefore, very unwise to completely write off Silva like Carragher has.