Brazil defender Danilo departs Juventus following contract termination

Danilo has parted ways with Juventus, with both the Brazil defender and the Serie A club confirming on Monday that his contract was terminated by mutual agreement.

“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 club announced in a statement.

The 33-year-old departs Juventus after 213 appearances, during which he won one Serie A title, two Italian Cups, and one Italian Super Cup.

According to Italian media, Danilo is set to return to Brazil, signing a two-year deal with Flamengo. His contract with Juventus was originally set to expire at the end of the season.

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

Danilo’s departure follows a challenging period, including losing his captaincy to Italy midfielder Manuel Locatelli after the arrival of Thiago Motta as coach during the summer.

Meanwhile, Portugal defender Renato Veiga arrived in Turin on Monday to undergo a medical ahead of completing a loan move from Chelsea. This comes as Juventus deals with the loss of Danilo’s compatriot Gleison Bremer, who is sidelined for the season with a knee injury.

Juventus currently sit fifth in Serie A, just two points shy of the Champions League spots, and are preparing to face Benfica in Europe’s top club competition on Wednesday.