Royal AM’s Nascimento talks departure from Mamelodi Sundowns!

Newly-signed Royal AM defender Ricardo Nascimento has finally broken silence on his unexpected departure from Mamelodi Sundowns.

PICTURE: RICARDO NASCIMENTO’S JERSEY NUMBER AT ROYAL AM REVEALED

Nascimento parted ways with Sundowns at the end of January after rejecting the club’s proposal for him to retire.

Sundowns had offered Nascimento a different position capacity within the club, but the Brazilian defender turned the offer down as he wanted to continue playing.

READ | MAMKHIZE’S ROYAL AM SIGN FORMER MAMELODI SUNDOWNS CAPTAIN!

Nascimento has now confirmed what co-coach Rhulani Mokwena told the media this week that he left Sundowns because they needed to free up a spot in their foreign quota.

The left-footer further thanked Sundowns president Patrice Motsepe for the support he gave him and his family from the day he arrived in South Africa six years ago.

READ | KAIZER CHIEFS CONTRACT RENEWALS: WHO DESERVE EXTENSIONS BASED ON STATS?

NASCIMENTO BREAKS SILENCE ON SUNDOWNS DEPARTURE

“My departure from the Sundowns was due to a request from the club, which needed to open a foreign spot in the team for this season,” said Nascimento in his farewell message.

“So, it was time to say goodbye. I’m very happy to announce that I will be joining a new family here in South Africa, the Royal AM family.

“I’m very grateful to Sundowns for all these years I have worn this shirt, and for all the titles and achievements we have been able to conquer together as a team.

“I would also like to thank President Patrice Motsepe for all the support he has always given to me and my family,” added Nascimento.

READ | MAMELODI SUNDOWNS V AL-HILAL: HOW TO WATCH THE MATCH ON TV?

Nascimento left Sundowns as a club legend with 144 competitive games, 17 goals and two assists under his belt.