The 33-year-old, who previously starred for Liverpool, Barcelona, Inter Milan, Bayern Munich, and Aston Villa, decided to terminate his contract after reportedly being booed by fans during a match against Volta Redonda.
In an emotional Instagram statement, Coutinho said his “cycle at the club has ended,” describing himself as “mentally exhausted” while assuring fans that Vasco will always remain in his heart.
Coutinho wrote in a post on Instagram: “I thought long and hard before writing this. I really did. But, out of respect, affection, and love that I have for you and for this club, I felt I needed to come here and speak from the heart.
“I chose to return to Vasco because I love this club. I love everything Vasco represents in my life. Wearing this shirt was one of the most important choices I've ever made. And, in every training session, in every game, I gave my best. Always! There was never a lack of dedication, never a lack of will and commitment.
“Being judged by countless people for something that isn't part of my character is extremely difficult. I would never disrespect the fans, my teammates, or Vasco. I've never done that anywhere I've been. Anyone who knows me knows that.
“At that moment, on my way to the locker room, I felt and realised that my time at the club was over, and I didn't return to prioritise my mental health. That hurts a lot.”
Having risen through Vasco’s youth ranks, he left for Inter Milan at 18, initially signing for £3.5million ($4.7m), and later moved to Barcelona for £145m ($195m).
Despite a brief homecoming, Coutinho is now a free agent once more, closing the chapter on his stint at the club where his career began.