Coutinho Bids Emotional Farewell to Vasco, Embraces New Chapter

omidbasir- Philippe Coutinho has announced the conclusion of his time at Vasco da Gama in an emotional statement posted on Instagram. He expressed that the club would always hold a special place in his heart, yet he felt it was the appropriate moment to part ways, as he is currently “mentally exhausted” and believes his “cycle at the club has ended.”

The 33-year-old midfielder, who rose through the youth ranks at Vasco, made his first significant move to Inter Milan at the age of 18 in 2010, having been signed for £3.5 million ($4.7 million) two years earlier. Throughout his illustrious career, Coutinho has represented prominent clubs such as Inter, Liverpool, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich, with his transfer to the Catalan club costing a staggering £145 million ($195 million). After a brief return to the club that marked the beginning of his career, Coutinho is now a free agent, having requested the termination of his contract.

In his Instagram post on Wednesday, he stated, “I thought long and hard before writing this. I really did. But, out of respect, affection, and love that I have for you and for this club, I felt I needed to come here and speak from the heart.”

Coutinho continued, “I chose to return to Vasco because I love this club. I love everything Vasco represents in my life. Wearing this shirt was one of the most important choices I’ve ever made. In every training session and game, I gave my best. There was never a lack of dedication, will, or commitment.”

He also addressed the challenges he faced, saying, “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.”

Reflecting on his decision to leave, Coutinho remarked, “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.”

He candidly shared, “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.”

Coutinho emphasized the enduring nature of his connection with Vasco, stating, “My relationship with Vasco is one of love. And it will continue to be forever. With a heavy heart, I understand that now is the time to take a step back and end this chapter at Vasco.”

Expressing gratitude, he concluded, “I am thankful for everything I experienced here. I will carry Vasco with me forever. In my heart. In my history. In my life. From the bottom of my heart… Thank you for everything.”

Since rejoining Vasco on an initial loan in 2024, which became permanent last summer, Coutinho has scored 17 goals and provided seven assists in 81 matches. However, his return to Brazil has taken a downturn in recent weeks, with the player being booed by fans on multiple occasions. Most recently, during a penalty shoot-out victory against second-division side Volta Redonda in the Campeonato Carioca quarter-finals, Coutinho was substituted at half-time and opted not to return to the bench to support his teammates.

As a free agent now, Coutinho is poised to embark on a new chapter in his career and life as he approaches the later years of his playing journey.