Vasco da Gama is on the brink of officially confirming Philippe Coutinho’s return to São Januário, ending a 14-year hiatus. The 32-year-old attacking midfielder is set to join on a one-year loan from Aston Villa, where he remains under contract until mid-2026.
Final details have been ironed out, and Vasco will bear the full cost of Coutinho’s salary, making him one of the top earners in the team.
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The club plans to unveil Coutinho this Tuesday at 11 a.m. Brasília time, a nod to the number 11 jersey he will don—a shift from the number 30 he wore during his initial stint after graduating from the youth squad.
An official presentation is slated for next Saturday at São Januário, capitalizing on a break in the Brasileirão schedule.
The mutual enthusiasm from both Vasco and Coutinho has been the key to sealing this deal.
💢🇧🇷 Vasco da Gama are advancing in talks with Philippe Coutinho’s camp to bring him back to the club.
Vasco, increasingly confident as Coutinho is keen on the move. pic.twitter.com/Y4fwjYtttR
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 26, 2024
Coutinho expressed his eagerness to return as early as the end of May, during his vacation period. He’s had ups and downs in his career. His high salary will strain Vasco’s budget, but his skill and experience could lift the team’s play.