Dimitri Payet recalls Vasco and rules out retirement after ‘fantastic moments’ | OneFootball

Dimitri Payet has reaffirmed his bond with Vasco and shut down talk of retirement. “Vasco represents the passion for football. It is a legendary club in Brazil, where I experienced fantastic moments with supporters who showed me incredible affection,” he said, speaking to the Ligue 1 official channel in France.

He added: “My career is not over.”

His Brazilian spell peaked late in 2023 as he became central to Vasco’s dramatic escape from Série A relegation. The defining night came at São Januário, when his stoppage-time free-kick sealed a 2-1 win over América-MG.

Early 2024 promised more, yet a persistent run of muscle injuries stripped away his rhythm and minutes.

In 2025 the relationship deteriorated. He did not hit the physical and technical levels the hierarchy expected, turning a hefty monthly salary into a strain on CRVG’s finances. The termination did not hinge on homesickness, his standing fell after an off-field scandal involving a mistress in Rio de Janeiro, bringing a melancholy end to his time in the country.

Source: PaponaColina