Flavio Silva fires back as Kaizer Chiefs form returns: ‘I am not Messi or Ronaldo’

Kaizer Chiefs forward Flavio Silva has delivered a measured response to critics after rediscovering his scoring rhythm, insisting his game has never been about individual brilliance but collective impact.

The 29-year-old endured a difficult stretch between January and February, where goals proved elusive and scrutiny intensified around his performances.

Questions were raised about his movement and ability to influence attacking phases, with some suggesting he lacked the instinct expected of a leading striker at a club of Chiefs’ stature.

Yet Silva has answered in the most convincing manner possible, returning to form with renewed efficiency in front of goal. He now has nine goals in 25 appearances across all competitions this season, underlining a steady contribution despite the earlier drought.

Rather than pushing back aggressively against criticism, the Guinea-Bissau international has adopted a reflective stance, framing the scrutiny as part of the professional landscape.

“For me, the criticism is not personal; it’s okay. It means I’m not playing well, and I can improve,” Silva said.

“I know the supporters will greet me, respect me, and give me love. So for me, it is no problem. It is part of the game.”

Silva’s resurgence has also reinforced what many within the club had maintained during his quieter spell: that his value extends beyond goals. His off-the-ball intelligence, pressing, and link-up play have remained consistent, offering structure to Chiefs’ attacking approach even when he was not scoring.

Addressing expectations, Silva was candid about the type of striker he is and, crucially, what he is not.

“It’s always about the team. I tell my teammates that I can score a lot of goals, but I’m not Messi or Ronaldo. I’m not going to dribble past three or four players to score,” he explained.

“I make my movements, my teammates find me, and it’s always about the team.”

Since arriving in July, Silva has steadily grown into a key figure for Chiefs, combining reliability with a clear understanding of his role within the system.