Philippe Coutinho Vasco exit confirmed in emotional statement as the midfielder cites mental fatigue after a difficult week

Philippe Coutinho, midfielder of Vasco da Gama and former Brazil international, announced on Thursday that he is leaving the Rio de Janeiro club, saying he is “tired mentally” and believes his “cycle at the club has ended.”

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The 33 year old made the declaration in a lengthy and emotional statement on Instagram after a turbulent week that saw him substituted at half time and booed by sections of supporters during Vasco’s penalty shootout victory over Volta Redonda FC.

As reported by BBC Sport on Thursday, Coutinho did not return to the bench for the second half of that match. Philippe Coutinho later explained that he chose to prioritise his mental health.

“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,” Coutinho wrote.

“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.”

Vasco da Gama have yet to officially confirm the Philippe Coutinho Vasco exit.

Coutinho began his professional career at Vasco before moving to Inter Milan as a teenager. He rose to prominence after joining Liverpool FC in 2013, scoring 54 goals in 201 appearances and establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most creative midfielders.

In 2018, Coutinho completed a £142m transfer to FC Barcelona. He later featured for FC Bayern Munich, Aston Villa FC and Al-Duhail SC before returning to Vasco in 2024 for a second spell.

Since rejoining the Brazilian side, Coutinho has made 81 appearances and scored 17 goals.

On the international stage, Coutinho earned 68 caps for Brazil and scored 21 goals.

“I chose to go back to Vasco because I love this club. I love everything that Vasco represents in my life,” Coutinho added.

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“I’m grateful for everything I’ve lived here. I’ll take Vasco with me forever. In the chest. In history. In life.”