Ronald Barcellos is saying goodbye to the Central Coast Mariners and will return to parent club and Mariners partner Portimonense at the conclusion of his contract.
The Brazilian joined the Mariners in January and has had an important impact, making 17 appearances across the Isuzu UTE A-League and AFC Cup.
He scored three goals for the club, none more important than his 120th minute winner against Macarthur in the AFC Cup Zonal Final, helping the Mariners progress to the next round of the competition, which they ultimately won.
He also came off the bench to assist Alou Kuol’s 84th minute winner against Al-Ahed in the AFC Cup Final.
Barcellos played an important role in helping the home team secure its treble of wins this season, being a constant headache for Melbourne’s defenders while assisting Miguel Di Pizio’s go ahead goal in the 97th minute.
He joined the Mariners off the back of the announcement of their partnership with Portuguese Primeira Liga club Portimonense, with his successful loan move only strengthening the affiliation.
The 22-year-old now returns to his parent club but could potentially return to the Coast in the future.
Mariners Sporting Director Matt Simon said he was excited to see what the future held for both Barcellos and the partnership with Portimonense.
“Ronald is both a top footballer and person, who contributed greatly during the biggest moments of our season, helping us win the treble,” Simon said.
“While he now heads back to Portimonense, the door is certainly not closed on him potentially returning to us in the future.
“Ronald was the first signing in our partnership with Portimonense, and one that we both consider to be a great success.
“This only further strengthens our connection with them, and we look forward to working extremely closely with Portimonense in the future on transfer and loan deals.”