In several cases where footballers end their professional career, they eventually choose to come out of retirement, generating immense global excitement from their fans.
The latest example of the phenomenon has seen former Manchester City and Spain attacker David Silva decide to lace up his boots for one final spell in Hong Kong.
The former Spain international has signed a short-term deal with newly-promoted side Supreme Sha Tin, joining them in their first season in the top-flight.
He originally retired three years ago after sustaining a serious knee injury during his spell at Real Sociedad.
Manchester City Legend David Silva Suits Up for Hong Kong Adventure
Manchester City legend David Silva announced on Instagram that he has joined Supreme Sha Tin on a short-term deal.
In a post on his Instagram page, the Spaniard spoke about things that excite him about joining his new club, pointing to the food and culture in Sha Tin as key reasons.
"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," he said.
He last played professional football in 2023, before an injury to his Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) in July led him to retire at the time.
Now 40 years old, he has joined the project that is being bankrolled by ambitious player-owner Jim Wong Chi-chuen.
He could make his debut for his new side as soon as later this month, as he will spend a few weeks getting back in shape for a return to action.
Silva will play under English manager Tom Ballantyne as Supreme Sha Tin hope to establish themselves in the Hong Kong top-flight this year.
They are in eighth place after four rounds of games, and will play their next game on October 18 against Hong Kong FC.
Silva Becomes Latest Spanish Icon to Make Asia Switch
David Silva has followed in the footsteps of some of his former Spain teammates in moving to an Asian club in the latter stage of his career.
The attacking midfielder enjoyed a fine career at the highest level, representing Valencia and Manchester City with distinction before moving to Real Sociedad.
In his decade at the Etihad Stadium, Silva won 11 major honours, including four Premier League titles, and was one of the best players in England's top-flight.
He has a statue outside Manchester City's stadium, as he is considered to be one of their greatest-ever players.
Silva was part of Spain's golden period in the late 2000s and early 2010s, winning two European Championships and the 2010 FIFA World Cup with La Roja.
He has now emulated Xavi and Andres Iniesta by moving to Hong Kong, with Xavi having played in Qatar and Iniesta in Japan.
