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Brazil-born Elkeson vows to ‘fight for Chinese national team’ as he bids emotional farewell to Guangzhou FC after nine years
- Elkeson returns to his hometown after nine years with the Chinese Super League
- The naturalised Chinese player said he will always be ready ‘to fight for our country and for the Chinese team’
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Naturalised Chinese footballer Elkeson is the latest overseas import to depart embattled Guangzhou FC and return to his native home, after a successful nine-year run with Chinese Super League.
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In a lengthy and emotional statement on Chinese social media platform Weibo, Elkeson said he was leaving Guangzhou FC with a heavy heart and a lot of love for Chinese football fans.
“Today I want to say goodbye to my club and the fans who have always supported me,” he said. “I hope the time we spent together will stay in your hearts. Those moments of celebrating with the fans, the cheers after each goal will be in my mind forever.”
The 32-year-old Elkeson told the media he will return to his hometown before deciding his future.
His departure follows a string of big names leaving Guangzhou FC. Another Chinese naturalised player Alan Carvalho returned to his home country, and last month Ricardo Goulart announced his was returning to his native Brazil. Aloisio, also known as Luo Guofu, is reportedly considering his options if contract issues are not sorted.
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