Jose Barreto to leave Mohun Bagan this summer

35 year old Brazilian Jose Marcio Ramirez Barreto at a press conference in Kolkata today announced that he would be leaving the green-and-maroon at the end of the season 13 years after first playing for the Kolkata giants.

"It's time for me to leave the club. You never plan this day but it has to happen some day. It was a real pleasure for me in donning the green and maroon jersey with pride for so many years," said an emotional Barreto infront of the media at the clubs Maidan tent.

Barreto has scored more then 200 goals for Mohun Bagan in 11 years at the club, the only players to achieve this at one club in India. Barreto had first joined Mohun Bagan in 1999 from Grêmio Porto Alegre and had five successful years before leaving the club to play a season each for Penang FA (Malaysia) and Mahindra United before rejoining the green-and-maroon in 2006 for a second six year spell.

"I am guided by my emotions, maybe some are correct and some are wrong. But that's the way of life. I have no regrets as I have always given 100 per cent to my favourite team. You cannot correct the mistakes now, it's past," Barreto said speaking about his decision why he is leave the club due to numerous injuries in the recent past.

"I think, I have it in me to continue playing for some more time, but have not decided on the club I will play for. And, of course I will continue to stay in Calcutta which has taught me a lot," said Barreto who is said to be speaking with Bhowanipore Club about a player-cum-coaching role.

As a mark of respect for what he has done for Mohun Bagan Athletic Club, the club has decided to treat the final I-League match against Pune FC on May 6 as Barreto's farewell match and has lined-up celebrations for Barreto's final game.

Jose Barreto with his family, would be driven around the Salt Lake stadium in an open jeep and felicitated by West Bengal sports minister Madan Mitra. The club was also contemplating preserving his no. 10 jersey at the tent.

With Barreto a gentleman footballer is set to leave the top tier in Indian football, who has given more then 100% for his club over the years. It has always been a pleasure to interact with him, talk football and other things.

Wish you all the best my friend!