Image Credits: Imago Images
Philippe Coutinho is currently a free agent after leaving boyhood club Vasco da Gama. The ex-Liverpool midfielder was substituted at half-time and booed by fans during Vasco’s penalty shootout win over Volta Redonda last week, and did not return to the bench for the second half.
In an emotional Instagram statement, the 33-year-old, who has 68 caps for Brazil national team, said he is leaving because “now is the time to take a step back.” He made 81 appearances and scored 17 goals during his second spell with Vasco after rejoining in 2024.
Coutinho began his career at Vasco before moving to Inter Milan and later joining Liverpool in 2013. He scored 54 goals in 201 games for the Reds before completing a £142m move to Barcelona in 2018, with subsequent spells at Bayern Munich, Aston Villa and Al-Duhail prior to his return to Vasco.
“I would never disrespect the fans, my team-mates and Vasco. I’ve never done that anywhere I’ve been. Those who know me know that,” he said. “At that moment, on the way to the locker room, I felt and realised that my cycle at the club had ended, and I didn’t come back to prioritise my mental health.
“It hurts a lot. The truth is that I’m very tired mentally. With a tight heart, I understand that now is the time to take a step back and end this cycle in Vasco.
“I’m grateful for everything I’ve lived here. I’ll take Vasco with me forever. In the chest. In history. In life.” “I chose to go back to Vasco because I love this club. I love everything that Vasco represents in my life,” added Coutinho.
“Wearing this shirt was one of the most important choices I’ve ever made. And, in every training session, in every game, I gave my best. Always!”
According to R7 Esportes, LA Galaxy have submitted an official offer to sign Philippe Coutinho. The Major League Soccer side can still register him, unlike most leagues, where transfer windows are closed. Coutinho has also been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia, though any switch there would only be possible from July.
Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.