Image Credits: Imago Images
Philippe Coutinho is searching for a new club after terminating his contract with boyhood side Vasco da Gama. The 33-year-old only made his return to Brazil permanent last summer following a loan spell but leaves after a difficult stint, admitting he felt “mentally exhausted” amid fan criticism.
“I chose to return to Vasco because I love this club,” Coutinho said. “I love everything Vasco represents in my life. 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! There was never a lack of dedication, never a lack of will and commitment.
“Being judged by countless people for something that isn’t part of my character is extremely difficult. I would never disrespect the fans, my teammates, or Vasco. I’ve never done that anywhere I’ve been. Anyone who knows me knows that.
“At that moment, on my way to the locker room, I felt and realized that my time at the club was over, and I didn’t return to prioritize my mental health. That hurts a lot. The truth is, I’m very mentally exhausted. I’ve always been very reserved, so saying this here isn’t easy, but I need to be honest.”
His career has struggled to regain momentum since his 2018 departure from Liverpool toBarcelona. According to ESPN, Philippe Coutinho is weighing up a move to Major League Soccer or retirement at 33 after receiving an enquiry from CSKA Moscow. A source close to the player suggests a move to Russia is unlikely.
Russian clubs and the national team remain suspended from FIFA and UEFA competitions following the country’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Since returning to Vasco da Gama in 2024, Coutinho made 81 appearances, scoring 17 goals and providing seven assists.
Coutinho began his career at Vasco da Gama before spells with Serie A giants Inter Milan and Liverpool – joining the Reds in 2013. He scored 54 goals in 201 appearances for Liverpool before a £142m move toBarcelona in 2018. He later featured for Bayern Munich, Aston Villa and Al-Duhail before returning to Vasco.
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