“Have to be honest”
Ex-Bayern player terminates contract – that’s what’s behind it
Updated February 19, 2026 – 1:07 p.mReading time: 2 minutes
Philippe Coutinho has moved around a lot in his career. At his hometown club, all signs were pointing to an extension – until now.
Philippe Coutinho has left his Brazilian youth club Vasco da Gama. The professional shared on Instagram: “The truth is that I’m very mentally exhausted. I’ve always been very reserved, so it’s not easy for me to say this, but I have to be honest.” He described his connection with Vasco as a “love affair.” “And it will stay that way forever.”
And further: “It is with a heavy heart that I understand that it is now time to take a step back and end this cycle at Vasco. I am grateful for everything I have experienced here,” said Coutinho. The Brazilian played for Vasco as a youth before making his professional debut in 2009. From 2010 onwards he moved to Inter Milan, Liverpool FC and Barcelona. He was loaned from the Catalans to FC Bayern for six months.
Under former Munich coach Hansi Flick, he managed to win the triple, consisting of the Champions League, championship and DFB Cup. In 38 games he scored eleven goals and set up nine and thus played a decisive role in the German record champions’ title wins. In the summer of 2020, his loan ended and Coutinho went back to Barça. In 2024 he rejoined Vasco.
The 33-year-old has recently been criticized in his home country: he did not return to the bench after being substituted. He addressed this in his message and wrote: “Wearing this jersey was one of the most important decisions I have ever made. And in every training session, in every game, I gave my best. Always.” He never lacked commitment, will and commitment. “I would never disrespect the fans, my teammates and Vasco. I have never done that before,” emphasized Coutinho.
The very moment for which he was criticized was crucial for the change: “In that moment, on the way to the dressing room, I felt and realized that my time at this club was over and I did not return to focus on my mental health,” explained Coutinho.
His contract with Vasco, which expires in the summer, was recently due to be extended. Now Coutinho decided against it. He played 124 games for the club.