Khaberni - Brazilian Felipe Coutinho has announced his unilateral departure from Vasco da Gama, causing a huge shock within the club and its fans.
Coutinho said in a post shared on his official Instagram account that he had to take this step to prioritize his mental health.
Coutinho began his post, "I thought a lot before I write here, I really thought a lot but due to the respect, affection, and love I have for you and for this club, I felt that I had to speak openly."
He added, "I chose to return to Vasco because I love this club. I love everything it represents in my life, wearing this jersey was one of the most important decisions I ever made, and in every training and match I gave my best. I never lacked dedication or commitment."
Coutinho continued, "Being judged by countless people because of something that is not part of my character is extremely difficult. I have never and will never disrespect the fans, my teammates, or Vasco club. I never did that anywhere I've been. Those who know me will understand this very well."
He announced, "In that moment as I was heading to the locker room, I felt and realized my journey at the club had ended, and I would not return to play in order to prioritize my mental health."
Coutinho concluded, "The truth is I am very mentally exhausted. I've always been a very private person, so saying this here is not easy, but I need to be honest."
The Reason Behind Coutinho's Decision
In the meantime, the Brazilian website "Globo" revealed that Coutinho informed the club president and coach, Fernando Diniz, of his sudden decision before making it public.
Diniz tried to convince Coutinho to reconsider his decision without success, as the player confirmed that his decision was "irreversible."
Coutinho made his decision due to the harsh criticism he faced recently from the team's fans, the last of which were jeers during the Vasco da Gama vs. Volta Redonda match last Sunday, which was the first time that happened, according to the same network.
These jeers were "the last straw" as Coutinho cried during the break between the halves, and he did not return to the field nor even sit on the bench in the second half, according to "Sport" newspaper.
Vasco da Gama was in negotiations with Coutinho to extend his current contract, which expires in June of the coming year, at least until the end of the current year.
Coutinho had returned to his mother club Vasco in July 2024 from Aston Villa, where he received a warm welcome and the club and its fans provided him with the time and support to regain his football senses and physical fitness.
However, Coutinho was unable during the year and seven months to regain his football level in line with his high technical capabilities and the club's expectations of him.
