Former Liverpool player Philippe Coutinho considering a transition to MLS or retirement, according to sources.
Philippe Coutinho, the former attacking midfielder for Liverpool and Barcelona, is contemplating a potential transfer to MLS or the possibility of retirement at the age of 33, following an inquiry from Russia regarding his availability, sources have informed ESPN.
Coutinho, who ended his contract with Brazilian club Vasco de Gama on February 19 due to fan pressure and mental fatigue, has attracted interest from Russian team CSKA Moscow, according to sources.
However, a source close to the player indicated to ESPN Brasil that they would be surprised if Coutinho were to accept an offer from Russian football.
The midfielder’s future options include joining an MLS club in the United States or potentially announcing his retirement.
Since February 2022, the Russian national team and its club teams have been barred from participating in FIFA and UEFA competitions due to the nation’s invasion of Ukraine.
Coutinho had a contract with Vasco that was set to run until mid-year, but the early termination of his agreement concluded his second spell with the club and places him at a pivotal moment in his career.
“The truth is that I’m very mentally exhausted. I’ve always been very reserved, so saying this here isn’t easy, but I need to be honest. My relationship with Vasco is one of love. And it will continue to be forever.
“With a heavy heart, I understand that now is the time to take a step back and end this cycle at Vasco,” he stated on social media when announcing the termination of his contract.
The midfielder made 81 appearances since rejoining Vasco in 2024, netting 17 goals and providing seven assists.
– Source: Orlando City in talks with Atlético’s Griezmann
– Lionel Messi ‘deeply regrets’ not learning English
