Gilberto’s stint with the Chicago Fire officially came to an end on Wednesday, when the club announced that they and the Brazilian striker mutually agreed to terminate his Designated Player contract.
According to the Daily Herald’s Orrin Schwarz, Gilberto was placed on “personal leave” by the Fire after he “walked out on the team” following an “emotional outburst” at the end of May. He was placed on a personal training schedule at Toyota Park apart from the rest of the club following the team’s return from a week off during MLS’s Copa America Centenario break.
Schwarz reported that Gilberto is expected to return to Brazil and sign with a club there. The 27-year-old joined the Fire last July after the club claimed him off of waivers following his release from Toronto FC. He spent the 2014 season with TFC, but was sent on loan to Brazilian side Vasco de Gama after the club acquired Designated PlayersSebastian Giovinco and Jozy Altidore ahead of the 2015 season. He moved to Chicago following the conclusion of that loan.
Gilberto scored five goals and added two assists in 10 appearances with the Fire in 2015, but didn’t find the back of the net and recorded two assists in nine appearances this year. His departure opens up a Designated Player and international spot on Chicago's roster.
