It is not painfully obvious that Thuram is past his best, you couldnt be further from the truth.True, he may not be as good, as quick or as atlhetic as he used to be, but I would still rather have him than a Rio Ferdinand, or a Puyol.
Watching Thuram play is sheer brilliance and beauty. There is no player in the world that can do things as classy, as calmly as he can. It's beautiful to see him take on younger, faster players and beat them with his experience and skills.
Thuram is still one of the best defenders in the world and far from past it.