VfL Wolfsburg and Brazilian Diego part ways

German Bundesliga champions of 2009 VfL Wolfsburg and Brazilian playmaker Diego are set to go separate ways after the player met coach Felix Magath to discuss his future.

Diego, whose full name is Diego Ribas da Cunha, had left the team hotel ahead of the final match of last season against 1899 Hoffenheim after Magath named his first eleven and Diego saw his name missing. Diego actually left his team on the day when Wolfsburg were fighting against relegation, an unacceptable incidence.

There have been speculation that the club fined Diego a record 500,000 Euros for his departure though it hasn't been confirmed by the club or player. Since that day there has been speculation what would happen with Diego - would he stay, be forced to play for the second team or allowed to leave.

Coach Magath said in a statement on the Wolfsburg website, "After the conversation it was clear that further co-operation will be difficult and that it is better if we go our separate ways."

Diego had only been signed in August 2010 as the big midfield hope for 15 million Euros from Juventus Torino. Wolfsburg wanted to build a successful team around him, but after the incidence the club, coach and most likely also team mates will have lost trust in him.

Diego had said before the meeting, "I have always felt comfortable in Wolfsburg, but I made a mistake. Now it's up to the club and myself to find the best solution."

The only solution was departure, but until Diego finds a new club he will be allowed to train with the team. Wolfsburg will be looking to recoup as much of their money as possible.