Serie A: Brazilian defender Danilo exits Juventus after five years spell

Brazilian defender Danilo has officially left Juventus after both parties agreed to a mutual termination of his contract. The Serie A club confirmed the decision in a statement on Monday.  

“Danilo Luiz da Silva and Juventus have parted ways after five and a half years together, following a mutual termination of the player’s contract,” the statement read.

The 33-year-old leaves the Turin club with an impressive record, having won one Serie A title, two Italian Cups, and one Italian Super Cup during his 213 appearances for Juventus.

According to Italian media reports, Danilo is set to return to Brazil, where he is expected to sign a two-year deal with Flamengo.

“I knew this day would come sooner or later, but you’re never ready to say goodbye,” Danilo wrote in a heartfelt message on Instagram.

The defender’s exit follows his fall from favour after the arrival of coach Thiago Motta in the summer and his replacement as captain by Italy midfielder Manuel Locatelli.

In related developments, Portugal defender Renato Veiga arrived in Turin on Monday for his medical ahead of a loan move from Chelsea.

Meanwhile, Danilo’s compatriot and fellow Brazil defender Gleison Bremer has been ruled out for the season with a knee injury.

Juventus currently sit fifth in Serie A, two points away from a Champions League qualification spot, and are set to face Benfica in Europe’s premier club competition on Wednesday.