Coutinho leaves Vasco: Mentally exhausted

Philippe Coutinho’s second stint at Vasco is nearing an unexpected conclusion.

According to Brazilian outlet Globo, the 33 year old midfielder has informed Vasco that he wants to terminate his contract with immediate effect. The request reportedly caught the club’s leadership by surprise, as there had been no prior public indication that an exit was imminent.

No formal agreement has been signed yet, but both Coutinho and Vasco are expected to release official statements clarifying the situation.

A request that surprised Vasco

Globo reported that Coutinho communicated his decision directly to the Rio de Janeiro based club, signaling his desire to step away immediately. Club officials were not expecting the move at this stage of the season, particularly given his regular involvement in the squad since returning in 2024.

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Talks are ongoing to resolve the contractual details. Until paperwork is finalized, Coutinho technically remains under contract.

His return to Vasco in 2024 was widely viewed as a symbolic homecoming. Having started his professional career there, many supporters hoped his second spell would provide stability and leadership.

Coutinho speaks openly about mental exhaustion

In comments shared by Transfer News Live, Coutinho addressed the personal reasoning behind his decision.

"I felt and realised that my cycle at the club had come to an end, and I chose not to return in order to prioritise my mental health. That hurts a lot."

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He continued: "The truth is, I am mentally very exhausted. I’ve always been very reserved, so speaking openly here isn’t easy, but I need to be honest."

Coutinho also thanked the club and its supporters, stating: "I will carry Vasco with me forever in my heart, in my history, in my life. From the heart…Thank you for everything."

The remarks reflect a broader shift in professional football, where players have become more willing to discuss mental well being publicly rather than remain silent.

A career that began and returned to Vasco

Since rejoining Vasco in 2024, Coutinho has made 72 appearances and scored 15 goals in all competitions as of February 2026. During his first spell between 2009 and 2010, he featured 43 times and scored five goals before earning a move to Europe.

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He later played for Inter Milan, Liverpool and Barcelona, establishing himself as one of Brazil’s most technically gifted attacking midfielders during his peak years in the Premier League and La Liga.

Now, his future is uncertain once again. Whether he chooses to continue playing elsewhere or take time away from the game, his connection to Vasco remains a defining chapter of his career.

Sources: Globo, Transfer News Live

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