Gabi Portilho, one of the standout stars of Brazilian women's football, has officially announced her departure from Corinthians, bringing to a close a significant chapter in her career. The 29-year-old forward confirmed she will not renew her contract with the club, which expires at the end of 2024, marking the end of five intense and successful years with the Timão.
Portilho's announcement came during her heartfelt acceptance speech for the Troféu Mesa Redonda award for the best player of 2024. "Unfortunately, I won't continue at Corinthians. Cycles close, and others open. It's a 'see you later,' not a goodbye," she stated, her voice laden with emotion as she thanked the club and its fans, highlighting the support she received throughout her career.
Since joining Corinthians in 2020, Gabi Portilho has been instrumental to the team's success, clinching numerous prestigious titles, including:
- Libertadores Feminina: 2021, 2023, 2024
- Brasileirão Feminino: 2020, 2021, 2023, 2024
- Supercopa do Brasil: 2024
While her statistics for the 2024 season showed just one goal across all competitions, her impact extended far beyond mere numbers. She showcased exceptional playmaking ability, tactical awareness, and became both a leader and mentor within the squad, especially during periods of transition.
2024 was also characterized by Portilho's involvement at the national team level, where she helped Brazil secure a silver medal at the Paris Olympics. Her performance during the tournament garnered international recognition, solidifying her status among the national and global elite, and highlighting her potential for future opportunities abroad.
The departure of Portilho takes place amid significant changes within the Corinthians women's team. Alongside her, other notable players such as defenders Yasmin, Carol Tavares, Isabela, and forward Millene are also expected to part ways with the club. For the Timão, this evolution is part of a broader strategy to rejuvenate their squad and maintain competitive stature as they head toward the 2025 season.
With several players also facing uncertain futures, including goalkeeper Mary Camilo, defender Duda Mineira, and attackers Jheniffer, Fernanda, and Ellen, the club is struggling to balance maintaining its core strength with integrating new talent. The management has, nonetheless, secured contracts with key players like midfielders Duda Sampaio and Vic Albuquerque, and forward Carol Nogueira. These renewals hint at Corinthians' commitment to retain competitive experience even as they navigate through player departures.
Gabi Portilho's decision not to renew her contract has been influenced by various factors on both personal and professional fronts. While specific future plans haven't been disclosed, the interest from foreign clubs is evidently strong, reflecting the growing appeal of women's football internationally. The recent years have seen European and North American leagues invest heavily in female talents, creating attractive avenues for accomplished players like Portilho.
"I'm incredibly grateful to Corinthians for everything they've done for me. To the fans, who are our strength. Without them, we are nothing," she cited, emphasizing the importance of the club's foundation and the community supporting her career growth.
Looking toward the challenges facing Corinthians women's football as they head to 2025, the focus now shifts to blending experienced players with promising newcomers. The incorporation of Andressa Alves, who previously played at Barcelona and Roma, is one pathway identified by the club to invigorate its midfield and leadership dynamics.
Portilho's legacy is deeply woven throughout the fabric of Corinthians women's football. The contributions she's made within her tenure are not only showcased through the trophies won but also through her steadfast resolve and spiraling influence over the next generation of female players. With her well-earned time at this club coming to fruition, her exit opens room for fresh leadership and perspectives to rise.
Despite not yet announcing her next move, there are already whispers around potentially exploring opportunities across Europe, capitalizing on her remarkable capabilities. Gabi's exit signifies the close of one prolific chapter but concurrently, the dawn of new possibilities.
The bond she built with Corinthians fans remains clear and strong. A specially emotional point for Portilho was expressing her gratitude to the loyal supporters who have consistently backed her throughout her career. “Without the supporters, we are nothing,” she remarked, acknowledging their powerful influence during her time at the club. This connection informs her belief of parting as only "a 'see you later' rather than a definitive goodbye,” implying the continued reverberation of her presence within the club's history.