Philippe Coutinho has announced his departure from his boyhood club, Vasco da Gama, saying he is “mentally tired” and believes his “cycle at the club has ended.”

The 33-year-old midfielder shared a heartfelt statement on Instagram following a difficult week, which included being substituted at half-time and booed by some supporters during Vasco’s penalty shootout win over Volta Redonda FC. Coutinho chose not to return for the second half to focus on his mental well-being.

“I would never disrespect the fans, my teammates, or Vasco. At that moment, I realized my cycle at the club had ended, and I prioritized my mental health,” he wrote.

Vasco has not yet officially confirmed his departure.

Coutinho began his professional career at Vasco before moving to Inter Milan as a teenager. He rose to global prominence at Liverpool FC, scoring 54 goals in 201 appearances and establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most creative midfielders. In 2018, he made a £142m move to FC Barcelona, followed by stints at FC Bayern Munich, Aston Villa FC, and Al-Duhail SC, before returning to Vasco in 2024.

Since rejoining, Coutinho has made 81 appearances and scored 17 goals for the Brazilian side. Internationally, he has 68 caps for Brazil, scoring 21 goals.

“I chose to go back to Vasco because I love this club. I’m grateful for everything I’ve lived here. I’ll carry Vasco in my heart, in history, and in life,” he added.

Coutinho’s decision underscores the growing importance of mental health in football, showing that even world-class players may step back to prioritize well-being over on-field pressures. His exit marks the end of an emotional chapter for both the player and Vasco da Gama supporters.