Brazil legend Thiago Silva has revealed that Andreas Villas Boas convinced him to travel to Scotland to complete his UEFA A-License coaching badge.
Silva, 41, recently departed Portuguese giants Porto for a second time and is understood to be considering retirement after an illustrious playing career.
During that career, Silva represented several major clubs including Chelsea, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain, winning numerous honours along the way.
Among his accolades, Silva claimed a Champions League, one Serie A title and seven Ligue 1 championships across his time at those clubs.
He also earned 110 caps for Brazil, captaining the national side at both the 2014 and 2022 World Cups.
Villas Boas, who now serves as President of FC Porto, previously completed his own coaching studies in Scotland and guided the club to the Europa League title in 2011.
Speaking to the Scottish FA’s social channels, Silva explained how the Portuguese coach had pointed him in the direction of Largs for his coaching education.
“Villas Boas is the president at Porto,” Silva said. “He told me to go here because for him, it’s the best school for teaching. So I’m very happy to be here.”
Silva also reflected on the managers who have shaped his thinking as he prepares for a career on the touchline, singling out several influential figures.
“I have had many coaches in my 20 years in football. I like Thomas Tuchel, Unai Emery, (Francesco) Farioli and Tite in the national team. (They had) different profiles, so I take a little bit here and there.”
Scotland are set to face Brazil in their final Group C fixture at this summer’s World Cup, and Silva offered a clear warning to his compatriots about one opponent in particular.
Silva identified John McGinn as the most dangerous player in the Scotland squad, highlighting his versatility and quality in midfield.
“For me, (the most dangerous) is the captain of Aston Villa. (John) McGinn is an amazing player,” Silva said, adding that he “plays inside the midfield and out on the wing.”
Despite his admiration for McGinn, Silva made clear where his loyalties remain when it comes to predicting the outcome of the Group C encounter.
“I think Brazil and Scotland are at a good level. But in my heart, I am all the time Brazil. So maybe 2-1 Brazil.”
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