Rivaldo quits in protest over sacking of coach

BRAZILIAN star Rivaldo has terminated his contract with Cruzeiro to protest the firing of coach Vanderley Luxemburgo.

The 31-year-old midfielder played just 11 matches with Cruzeiro, the Brazilian champions, after coming over in a blockbuster transfer from AC Milan, where he had fallen out of favour.

“After Luxemburgo was sacked, I didn’t sleep, thinking about the decision I should take,” Rivaldo said. “And I preferred to leave, too. I was loyal to the coach who brought me here.”

No clear explanation was given for Luxemburgo’s firing, although there were rumours of dissent within the club.

Rivaldo denied any turmoil in the dressing room.

The midfielder also complained about the criticism he received from fans.

“A player should be evaluated at the end of the tournament, not at the beginning, with only a few matches,” Rivaldo said.