Memphis Depay departs Atletico Madrid as contract expires

Dutch-Ghanaian footballer Memphis Depay has penned a heartfelt message to Atletico Madrid as he departs from the club following the expiration of his contract.

After 18 months in the Spanish capital, Depay and the club mutually decided not to exercise the option for a contract extension.

Depay joined Atletico Madrid from Barcelona in January 2023 and quickly became a key figure in Diego Simeone's squad.

However, with his contract ending on June 30, he will now be available for a free transfer.

In an emotional message on X (formerly Twitter), Depay expressed his mixed feelings about leaving the club.

"Not easy to say how I feel about writing this message because I feel that things could’ve been very different. Maybe it’s better to keep that conversation for another time," he wrote.

"To Atletico Madrid, my teammates, the staff, and especially the fans, I wanna thank you for the energy and support I’ve experienced in my time being an Atleti player.

I keep the good memories close to my heart. Gracias. Aupa Atleti!," added the Dutch international.

Born to Ghanaian parents in Moordrecht, Depay frequently spends his vacations in Ghana. This summer, he will join the Holland national team for the European Championship in Germany.