Behind the scenes of Coutinho’s controversial exit from Vasco | OneFootball

Philippe Coutinho's departure from Vasco was motivated by a process of emotional exhaustion that had been dragging on since the end of last season. The request for contract termination surprised the board, but people close to the player reveal that the decision had already been considered behind the scenes.

In a post on social media, the number 10 cited mental health issues to explain the end of his cycle at São Januário. According to reports, the midfielder became emotional during halftime of the match against Volta Redonda and realized at that moment that it was time to take a step back.

The player's emotional state worsened after last year's runner-up finish in the Copa do Brasil. Internally, there was a perception that Coutinho was excessively hard on himself and “suffered to play,” often unable to enjoy the matches. The desire to win a title upon his return to Vasco did not materialize, which increased his frustration.

The criticism, especially on social media, also took its toll. Although he was supported by much of the fans for months, the midfielder began to be booed recently, which intensified the distress.

– There was never a lack of effort, never a lack of will and commitment. Being judged by countless people for something that is not part of my character is too hard — wrote the player.

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Coutinho in action for Vasco — Photo: Thiago Ribeiro/AGIF

Conversation with Fernando Diniz and retirement plan at the club

Coach Fernando Diniz was already aware of the delicate moment Coutinho was experiencing, but did not expect the decision to be made so immediately. In 2025, the coach even revealed that the midfielder had previously considered stopping playing football, reinforcing that even experienced athletes need support.

Last week, the two had a definitive conversation. Diniz was shaken by the decision, which the player considered irreversible. The coach, who has publicly spoken about the suffering he experienced as an athlete, showed understanding in the face of the number 10’s choice.

Vasco’s initial plan was to renew Coutinho’s contract until the end of the year and have the midfielder end his career at the club. There were ongoing talks in this regard. However, the player’s decision was motivated exclusively by the need to prioritize his mental health, and not by a new professional stage.

With this, a remarkable chapter in Coutinho’s journey at Vasco comes to an end — a return filled with expectation, but also with intense demands and emotional pressure.

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Photo: Matheus Lima/Vasco

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This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.