Brazilian footballer Oscar Photo: VCG

Brazilian footballer Oscar dos Santos Emboaba Junior, commonly known as Oscar, officially announced his departure from China's Shanghai Port FC on Wednesday after eight illustrious seasons, signaling the end of what many consider the Chinese Super League (CSL)'s "golden era" of high-profile international signings. 

The 33-year-old midfielder, who joined the club in December 2016 for a record-breaking 60 million euros ($62.43 million) transfer fee from English Premier League club Chelsea, according to football transfer news tracking site transfermarkt.com, will return to his boyhood team Sao Paulo FC in Brazil.  

Oscar's tenure at Shanghai Port was marked by extraordinary success, both individually and for the club. During his time in China, the playmaker made 248 appearances across all competitions, scoring 77 goals and delivering countless assists. 

His contributions helped the team win five trophies, including lifting the CSL silverwares in 2023 and 2024 as team captain for himself.  

In his farewell statement, Oscar reflected on his time in Shanghai, describing it as "a chapter that has forever marked my life." 

"Playing here was a privilege, and feeling your energy in every match is something I will never forget," his statement on Weibo reads. 

Oscar's departure coincides with the club's 19th anniversary, a symbolic moment for both parties. In an emotional statement, Shanghai Port thanked their captain for his years of dedication. 

"Captain, you will always be our pride," read the club's farewell message. 

The Brazilian midfielder was not only a pivotal player on the field but also a leader who inspired his teammates, the club statement said. 

Shanghai Port captain Oscar holds the Chinese Super League trophy and celebrates with teammates on November 2, 2024 in Shanghai. Photo: IC

Oscar's departure symbolizes a turning point for the CSL. Known for its "golden era" of lavish spending on stars like former Brazil internationals Oscar, Hulk and Paulinho, the league has since shifted toward a more sustainable approach. 

Oscar's annual salary at Shanghai Port was reportedly at 24 million euros, which made him one of the highest-paid players in the world. 

The introduction of salary caps on foreign players at 3 million euros annually and stricter financial regulations has made retaining high-profile players like Oscar increasingly difficult.  

"Oscar's departure shows the CSL faces a new reality, as teams will now need to rely more on strong management and sharp scouting rather than the dominance of foreign players," football commentator Chen Yong told the Global Times. 

However, Chen emphasized that Shanghai Port remains a powerhouse capable of competing for future CSL championships though Oscar's exit may deal a blow for the club temporarily. 

"Oscar's departure will undoubtedly have a profound impact on the club's tactics temporarily but Shanghai Port are still now one of the most financially healthy CSL clubs, a fact that makes it possible to obtain future signings to fill in the void."