HARRISON, NJ (July 3, 2013) – The New York Red Bulls announced today they came to a deal with midfielder Juninho to mutually agree to cancel his contract.



“We are very disappointed that Juninho has decided to return to Brazil because he is a great professional and a very talented footballer,” said Red Bulls Sporting Director Andy Roxburgh. “We wish him all of the best and thank him for his valuable contributions during the first half of the 2013 MLS campaign.”



“Before I leave for home, I want to thank the New York Red Bulls for the opportunity to experience MLS and to wish my teammates and the club’s excellent fans every success for the remainder of the season,” Juninho said.



Juninho, a former Brazilian International who was a member of the 2006 FIFA World Cup squad, signed with New York from Brazilian First Division side, Vasco da Gama on Dec. 17, 2012. He recorded four assists and 13 appearances, 10 of which were starts.



Juninho had a storied career playing for French First Division club, Olympique Lyonnais, from 2001-2009. With Lyon, the 37-year-old helped win seven-straight Ligue 1 titles from 2002-08 while recording 100 goals in 344 matches in all competitions.



Juninho began his career with Brazilian side, Sport, in 1991 before heading to Vasco da Gama in 1995. He won the Brazilian Championship with the Rio de Janeiro-based side in 1997 and 2000 and the Copa Libertadores in 1998.



On the international stage, Juninho made his Brazilian National Team debut in 1999 and earned 47 caps for his country, notching seven goals. He was a member of the 2006 FIFA World Cup squad before retiring from international soccer.