.png?locale=en)
Alsharq Tribune-M.Essam
Philippe Coutinho has parted ways with Vasco da Gama, citing mental health and a realization that his cycle at the Brazilian club had ended.
The announcement came four days after Coutinho was booed by fans during Vasco's home clash with Volta Redonda. The 33-year-old was substituted at halftime and did not return to the bench as Vasco won on penalties.
"I would never disrespect the fans, my teammates or Vasco," Coutinho, who has 68 caps for Brazil, said in a social media post.
"I have never done that anywhere I have played. Those who know me know that. At that moment, as I was heading to the locker room, I felt and realized that my cycle at the club had come to an end, and I did not return in order to prioritize my mental health. It hurts a lot."
Coutinho made 81 appearances and scored 17 goals in his second spell with Vasco. He helped the Rio de Janeiro club reach the final of last year's Copa do Brasil, which it lost to Corinthians.
"The truth is that I am mentally very tired," Coutinho said. "I have always been very reserved, so saying this here is not easy, but I need to be honest. My relationship with Vasco is one of love. And it will always be that way. With a heavy heart, I understand that now is the time to take a step back and end this cycle at Vasco. I am grateful for everything I experienced here."
The midfielder's contract had been due to expire in June and local media has linked him with a possible move to Major League Soccer.
Vasco did not immediately comment on the decision.
Coutinho began his professional career with Vasco in 2008 and later had spells at Inter Milan, Espanyol, Liverpool, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Aston Villa and Al-Duhail before returning to his original club in 2024.
