The curtain has finally fallen on a remarkable chapter in Brazilian football as Gabriel Silver played his last match for FC Coritiba, signing off with a goal, an assist, and the Man of the Match award in a 2-0 win over Goiás.
The 15-year-old prodigy, who joined Coritiba at just 13, leaves the club after two breathtaking seasons that saw him rise from a benchwarmer to a club icon.
Saturday's match was not just the end of a season — it was the end of an era.
Silver's final appearance was an emotional rollercoaster. After scoring a goal and assisting the other, he pointed to the stands, dedicating his performance to the fans who had supported him since day one.
His connection with the fans was undeniable — every corner of the stadium was filled with jerseys bearing the number 46 and the words "NOSSO HERÓI"(Our Hero).
Banners reading "We will miss you" waved throughout the match, with many fans pleading for his jersey as a memento.
Gabriel's journey at Coritiba didn't start with immediate stardom.
In his debut season (2023/2024), he struggled for minutes. Yet, through the unwavering trust of head coach Mozart and the patience of the fans, he blossomed into a dominant attacking midfielder — mature beyond his years, confident, and consistently decisive.
By the 2024/2025 season, he had become the heartbeat of the team, finishing with 30 goals and 20 assists, a staggering 50 goal involvements — unprecedented for a player of his age and position.
His goal tally not only broke club records but also placed him third on the all-time list for most goals in a single Brasileirão season:
Player Year Goals
Washington 2003/2004 34
Edilson vieira 2002/2003 31
Gabriel Silver 2024/2025 30
Edmundo 1996/1997 29
Guilherme 1999/2000 28
For the first time in over two decades, a teenager had shattered scoring norms.
His efforts were recognized nationwide, as he was voted Best Player of the Season, becoming the youngest ever to win the award.
After the final whistle, Silver waved to the fans, clapping through tears. In return, the entire stadium stood in applause.
Players, coaches, and staff took turns embracing him, while Coach Mozart whispered words of encouragement — a mix of pride and sadness marking the end of an incredible relationship.
"It's hard to say goodbye," Silver said in his farewell message. "This club made me who I am.
The fans believed in me even when I wasn't good enough to start. I will carry you in my heart forever."
Despite his emotional farewell, Silver understood his next step was necessary. With Coritiba facing financial challenges, his transfer to Palmeiras not only boosts his career prospects but also helps his boyhood club stabilize financially.
The Gabriel family sat in the stands, their hearts heavy with emotion.
They had spent their whole lives together, always close, always supporting each other.
Now, their son was leaving to join FC Coritiba, and although they were proud, the sadness was undeniable.
He was still so young — not quite ready, they thought, to be far from home.
Would he be okay on his own? Would he miss them as much as they already missed him?
Tears welled in their eyes as they watched him on the field, knowing this was the beginning of something new — and the end of something precious.
Moving to São Paulo to join Palmeiras on his first professional contract, Gabriel knows he's entering a new chapter.
Unlike Coritiba, where he was the focal point, competition will be fierce. Yet, that's exactly what drives him.
"I know I'll have to fight for my place, but that's how I grow. I want to play in the Copa Libertadores, win titles, and make it to the Brazilian national team.
My dream is to play in Europe — Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester City… one day, I'll get there," he stated confidently.
Gabriel's departure leaves more than just a tactical void. His jersey was the most sold of the season, and many of the club's recent sponsorship deals were directly tied to his popularity.
Without him, Coritiba not only loses its star on the pitch but also a key revenue driver.
Coach Mozart admitted:
"We'll find a replacement, but there's only one Gabriel Silver. He's a once-in-a-generation talent."
As he prepares for pre-season with Palmeiras after a short holiday, Gabriel is eager to step into a new environment and prove himself again.
From the streets of Curitiba to the grand stage of São Paulo — and eventually Europe — the world will be watching.
One thing is certain: FC Coritiba may have lost their star, but Brazilian football has found its next big thing.
Gabriel Silver — remember the name.
FC Coritiba has officially announced the departure of Gabriel Silva, who is set to join Palmeiras.
Following the announcement, the club removed all of his photos from their social media platforms.
Players from the squad took to their own social media accounts to wish him the best of luck in this new chapter.
The team captain also shared a heartfelt message: "We'll miss your accurate passes. Go do it, boy!"
Good luck, Gabriel!