ISL Transfers: Raphael Augusto leaves Chennaiyin FC

Chennaiyin FC have confirmed that they have parted ways with the midfielder Raphael Augusto. 

Chennaiyin FC have confirmed about their departure of the midfielder Raphael Augusto from the club. The Brazilian, who famously scored the goal against Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League 2018 final to bag the club’s second title, has drawn curtains to his brief four-year spell with the club.

The attacking midfielder joined the Blues on loan in 2015, before going on to clinch the title under Marco Materazzi. In the subsequent month, the former Fluminense midfielder signed for Chennaiyin FC on a permanent basis. He appeared 57 times for the club – bagging seven goals and becoming a huge fan favourite during this period.

In an official statement released by the club, the 28-year-old thanked the club and fans, quoting: “I just want to thank all the fans and supporters, because they always did their best to help and support me! I always gave my best on the field because of you guys, the fans. You all deserve the best and I will always be thankful for what you guys did for me. All my love and thanks to the fans.”

The midfielder was also one of the main reasons for the resurgence in the title-winner season under the Italian manager. Fortunes changed for the club since his arrival at the club, thereby annexing his name in the club’s history books.

The co-owners of the club, said: “Raphael Augusto is a name synonymous with Chennaiyin and the club’s rich history. He will forever be remembered as someone who gave more than 200% every time he took to the pitch, and the club’s most ardent supporter off the pitch. We hope he continues to remain one, even now. We are all emotional at his departure from the club, and we would like to take this moment to thank him for all the countless memories. His flair, trickery, technical brilliance and not to mention his ever-smiling demeanour will forever be ingrained in our club’s folklore. We would like to wish him and his lovely family, the very best for the future.”

Earlier today, the Blues also confirmed the departure of CK Vineeth, Halicharan Narzary, and Mohammed Rafi. Lucian Goian, Nerijus Valskis, and Masih Saighani are some of the high-profile signings, alongside the right-back Edwin Sydney.