After seven successful years in the Chinese Super League, former Chelsea star Oscar has departed the league as the last of the “bubble” era players to leave the country.
The 33-year-old midfielder, who joined Shanghai Port (formerly Shanghai SIPG) in 2017 for a reported £60 million, was emotional as he bid farewell to the club and its fans.
Oscar’s contract, worth an estimated £25 million per year, has now expired, making him a free agent. During his time in China, he helped Shanghai Port win three league titles, in 2018, 2023 and 2024, as well as the FA Super Cup in 2019. He was also the club captain.
The Brazilian international, who earned 48 caps for his country, was visibly distraught as he left the pitch for the final time, waving goodbye to the supporters who had cheered him on over the years.
Oscar’s departure marks the end of an era in the Chinese Super League, which had seen a number of high-profile players lured to the country with lucrative contracts during the “bubble” period. He is now being linked with a potential return to Europe, with his former club Internacional in Brazil also reportedly interested in his services.
“Our only goal, the player we are going to try moving forward, is Oscar. I want to bring in Oscar,” said Internacional manager Eduardo Coudet. “I’ve already spoken to his manager, he can’t stand me anymore. I want Oscar.”
During his four-and-a-half seasons at Chelsea, Oscar established himself as a key player, winning two Premier League titles, the League Cup, and the Europa League. He also twice won the club’s Goal of the Season award.
As Oscar embarks on the next chapter of his career, his time in China will be remembered as a significant and successful period, both for the player and the league he helped to grow.
