Douglas Costa, former Juventus and Bayern star, exits Sydney FC

Former Juventus and Bayern Munich winger Douglas Costa has parted ways with Sydney FC after his contract was terminated by mutual consent. 

The 35-year-old, a former Brazil international who was hailed as a marquee signing for Ufuk Talay’s side when he arrived last August, is unable to leave his native Brazil amid “ongoing legal and personal matters”, the club said.

“We have supported him over the last couple of months to try and resolve his issues, however, we’ve agreed this is the best path forward for the squad,” said Talay, who had previously acknowledged the club was planning for life without their star man.

Costa, who scored four goals in 15 appearances as Sydney finished seventh in the A-League last term, became the club’s biggest signing since Italian Alessandro Del Piero in 2012 when he arrived at Moore Park last year.

Together with former Chelsea and Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata, who joined Western Sydney Warriors 10 days later, Costa quickly became a poster boy for the competition. 

‘I will always remember my time in Sydney fondly’

But now, two days after Mata announced a move to Melbourne Victory, Sydney fans have been left crestfallen by the attacker’s departure. Costa acknowledged their support in a farewell statement.

“I want to thank Sydney FC for giving me the opportunity to play in Australia – it was an incredible year in Sky Blue,” said the Brazilian. “I am very sorry that I cannot return at this time due to the matters I must resolve at home, but I will always remember my time in Sydney fondly. 

“To the members and fans, I truly appreciate the support you gave me and the team. Playing in front of you was very special, and I will never forget it.”

‘Unable to travel to Australia’

Costa’s statement followed an official announcement from the club, who had grown increasingly resigned to his probable departure and this week brought in Spanish striker Víctor Campuzano, who recently left Segunda Division side Sporting Gijón.

“Sydney FC has terminated the contract of Douglas Costa by mutual consent, with the winger unable to travel to Australia,” said a club statement.

“Ongoing legal and personal matters in his home country have prevented the Brazilian from leaving. Despite being granted more than two months’ grace to resolve those issues, Costa has informed Sydney FC there is no end in sight.”

In May 2023, Costa was issued with an arrest warrant over an alleged failure to pay child support.