David Silva ends retirement at 40 to join Hong Kong Premier League side Supreme Sha Tin

David Silva, the former Manchester City and Spain midfielder, has ended his retirement at the age of 40 by signing a short-term contract with Supreme Sha Tin of the Hong Kong Premier League. The deal ends a three-year absence from professional football after a serious knee injury curtailed his time at Real Sociedad in 2023.

Sha Tin, who were newly promoted to Hong Kong’s top flight this season, confirmed the signing on Instagram, calling it “absolute madness” and describing Silva as a “legendary Spanish No. 21 midfielder.” Club owner Jim Wong Chi-chuen told the South China Morning Post that Silva could make his debut as early as October 18 as he builds match fitness.

In a video message to supporters, Silva expressed genuine enthusiasm for the move. “I am very happy to join Supreme Sha Tin for this experience,” he said. “I’m really looking forward to going to Hong Kong to enjoy the culture, the people, and the food in Sha Tin — and the football in Hong Kong, of course.”

Silva’s arrival comes alongside the appointment of English manager Tom Ballantyne, who was named head coach earlier this week. The club have won just one of their opening four league matches this season, and the dual appointments signal an ambitious push for stability and profile.

The Spaniard brings one of the most decorated CVs in modern football to the Hong Kong top flight. His decade at Manchester City between 2010 and 2020 yielded 13 trophies, while at international level he won the 2010 FIFA World Cup and back-to-back UEFA European Championships with Spain in 2008 and 2012. Those City honours are now subject to scrutiny following the club’s guilty verdict for breaching Premier League financial rules — a decision City have appealed.

Silva’s move follows reports that Sha Tin had also been in contact with former Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata, suggesting the club’s ownership is actively targeting high-profile European talent. Sha Tin currently play their home fixtures at the 2,200-capacity Hammer Hill Road Sports Ground while their main stadium undergoes renovation.