Hulk confirms Shanghai SIPG departure after ACL elimination
Following the Chinese outfit's exit from the Asian Champions League round of 16, the highly-ranked Brazilian announced his departure as his time at Shanghai SIPG came to an end.
Shanghai SIPG's Hulk confirmed it's time for him to part ways with the Chinese club at which he spent four and half years, following their elimination from the ACL (east) round of 16 with a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Japanese side Vissel Kobe.
The Brazilian was involved in a disagreement with his coach Vitor Pereira in his last appearance in Shanghai's kit during the game against Yokohama F. Marinos as this marked the end of the coach depending on the 34-year-old although the veteran striker was on the score sheet in the previous fixture against Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, netting the winning goal in their 2-1 victory.
During his time at Shanghai, Hulk won the Chinese Super League and Super Cup, scoring 70 goals in all competitions.
The Brazilian took to social media to announce his departure following his team's exit, posting: "Today is a day as important as the one I was presented, the day to say goodbye to Shanghai SIPG, a club where I was welcomed with great affection".
“After more than four years I am very grateful to the fans who received me very well. To the board and players, I give my thanks for sharing so many years of work and dedication. I depart leaving friends.”
Hulk has been a part of the Shanghai ranks since 2016, when he joined the club for a record Chinese Super League transfer fee back then.