David Silva has come out of retirement at 40 to join Hong Kong Premier League club Sha Tin, with the move confirmed on Wednesday.
The former Manchester City and Spain midfielder prepares for his first club spell outside Europe.
Silva retired in 2023 after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury during pre-season training at Real Sociedad, according to BBC.
Talksport and LiveScore reported that Sha Tin have given him a short-term deal.
Sha Tin are eighth in the league after four matches, according to BBC and talksport.
The club earned promotion from the second division last season, as reported by talksport, and are managed by English coach Tom Ballantyne.
"I’m so excited to go to Hong Kong and enjoy the local culture, the food in Sha Tin and, of course, football in Hong Kong," said Silva.
In a separate video message cited by talksport, Silva said the move will give him a new experience after a career spent in Spain and England.
He won the World Cup and two European Championships with Spain during the most successful era in the national team's history.
"Hello everyone, I’m David Silva, I am very happy to join Supreme Sha Tin for this experience," said Silva.
Silva then outlined what he expects from the relocation to Hong Kong.
His arrival gives the newly promoted side one of the most decorated players ever to appear in the competition.
"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," said Silva.
He also sent a short message to supporters as the club prepares for his arrival.
According to talksport, Silva could make his debut against Hong Kong Football Club on October 18, while LiveScore reported his first official appearance is expected next November.
"I can’t wait to go, so I look forward to seeing you all soon. Best regards," said Silva.
According to BBC and talksport, Silva won 11 major honors in 10 years at Manchester City, including four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, two Community Shields and five League Cups.
He also helped Real Sociedad win the delayed 2020 Copa del Rey, according to talksport.
BBC reported that Silva has a statue outside the Etihad Stadium.
His transfer is the Hong Kong league's highest-profile arrival since Diego Forlan played for Kitchee in the 2017-18 season, according to talksport.
"David Silva will be in Hong Kong soon to settle in, link up with squad training, and build up to peak match fitness before making his pitch debut," said Sha Tin.
