Chelsea legend and former Real Madrid star Ricardo Carvalho released on free transfer by Monaco after three years of service
Veteran centre-back helped Portugal to historic Euro 2016 win this summer but is now hunting new club after contract snub
CHELSEA legend Ricardo Carvalho is on the hunt for a new team after being released by Monaco.
The 38-year-old saw his contract come to an end earlier this month and club chiefs have decided not to extend his deal despite a successful three-year spell.
Carvalho scored twice in 117 appearances for the Ligue 1 giants, silencing the doubters who were sceptical about his age.
Monaco have already signed a replacement in Poland international Kamil Glik, and vice-president Vadim Vasilyev believes the time was right for Carvalho to move on.
He said: “We discussed it and we have decided not to renew his contract.
“But I’d like to take this opportunity to thank him for what he has done at Monaco.
“He brought a lot. He was indispensable in our defence. But the moment had come to make the change.
“When he arrived, people doubted his ability to get back to the top level.
“Ricardo has justified the confidence of Monaco by showing a little more, the great professional he is, and contributing to the sporting results of our team.
“It is an honour to have had this great champion among us, Ricardo will always be welcome in Monaco.”
Carvalho, who helped Portugal win Euro 2016 last month, has enjoyed a trophy-laden career but could decide to call it a day if he can’t find a new side.
The centre-back was part of Jose Mourinho’s famous Porto side which won the Champions League in 2004, and he followed his manager to Stamford Bridge the following season.
Carvalho made 210 appearances during a six-year spell at Chelsea, sealing three Premier League titles and three FA Cups in the process, before winning La Liga under Mourinho during a three-year stint at Real Madrid.