“Centre-backs usually get criticised for clearing the ball long, but it's easier doing this than risking a pass. If you lose the ball at the back, it's almost a goal. Most centre-backs don't risk this kind of game, depending on the holding midfielder in front.”

Brazilian kickboxer and mixed martial artist

Thiago Silva is a Brazilian kickboxer and mixed martial artist, active in the light heavyweight division of Eagle FC. A professional competitor since 2005, he has also fought in the Ultimate Fighting Championship, the World Series of Fighting, Absolute Championship Berkut, Konfrontacja Sztuk Walki, and Pancrase. He is known for his career across several major combat sports promotions, moving between kickboxing and mixed martial arts at light heavyweight. His public profile comes from that long competitive run, beginning in 2005 and extending through organizations in Brazil and abroad.