Everton Felipe reveals why he gave up millions to return to Sport | OneFootball

Everton Felipe has provided insight into the circumstances behind his departure from São Paulo and his emotional return to Sport, according to Arquibancada Tricolor. The midfielder, a product of Sport’s academy, chose to terminate his contract with São Paulo despite earning a significant monthly sum of R$280,000. Felipe cited psychological factors as the primary motivation for this decision, underscoring the personal toll his situation was taking.

In his own words, Felipe said, “I terminated with São Paulo, I gave up everything there, I just wanted to come back here.” At the time, Sport was only able to offer a salary of R$100,000—a sharp decrease from what he had been earning in São Paulo. Nevertheless, Felipe stated the financial aspect was not decisive. “I was in a very bad psychological state and just wanted to return to Sport. That wasn’t a problem,” he admitted.

His comments lay bare the complex relationship between mental well-being and career choices for professional athletes. While lucrative contracts often dominate headlines, Felipe’s experience highlights how personal attachment and emotional needs can outweigh even substantial economic incentives.

The return to his boyhood club represents more than just a transfer; for Felipe, it was about regaining personal balance and reconnecting with his roots in Recife. Sport, limited by financial constraints, benefited from his willingness to accept a lower wage to prioritise his own health and happiness.

Felipe’s move sheds light on a less-discussed aspect of the modern game, where issues away from the pitch can prove more influential than on-field matters. Players are increasingly vocal about mental and emotional challenges, and stories like Felipe's illustrate the trade-offs athletes are willing to make when faced with such pressures.

(Source: Arquibancada Tricolor)

Photo by Ricardo Moreira/Getty Images