Dória speaks out after leaving São Paulo over threats to his family | OneFootball

Defender Dória terminated his contract with São Paulo this Thursday (21) by mutual agreement with the club after he and his family received death threats from fans on social media.

When the squad returned after the match against Millonarios-COL, on Wednesday afternoon (20) at CT da Barra Funda, the defender approached the Football Department and requested to leave the club for personal reasons.

The target of heavy criticism for mistakes in recent matches, Dória told the club’s board that he and his family have been receiving death threats. Given the seriousness of the situation, the player and the club’s leadership reached an agreement to terminate his contract.

Shortly after São Paulo announced the defender’s departure, Dória also spoke out on his social media, explaining the decision.

“Some things go beyond football. Today I am ending my chapter at São Paulo. It was a very personal decision, made together with my family. I need some time to deal with personal matters. I’m grateful to the club for its support and understanding. I wish São Paulo every success,” the defender wrote.

THE DEPARTURE

São Paulo’s representatives spoke with the player and considered alternatives, but the athlete firmly reiterated his decision to leave the club.

As a result, Tricolor and the player’s representatives agreed on the contract termination, with the player waiving all amounts related to his contract. São Paulo thanked the player in an official statement for the dedication shown during his second spell and reaffirmed its support and solidarity at this difficult time.

The episode worsens the crisis in the squad’s defense. Currently, center-back is the position of greatest need for coach Dorival Júnior, who is already dealing with a series of injury absences while trying to put together his starting lineup. The off-field turmoil reflects the player’s unstable form on the pitch. Dória had been coming off a run of crucial mistakes in a short period of time.

In the Brazilian Championship last weekend, a misplaced pass by the defender led to Fluminense’s winning goal. Then on Tuesday (19), in the Copa Sudamericana, the defender was at fault in the build-up to another goal conceded and later gave away a penalty.

Signed at the start of the year on a long-term deal running until December 2027, Dória made 11 appearances and scored one goal for São Paulo during this spell.

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