Douglas Costa has officially returned to Italy after AC Chievo confirmed the signing of the former Juventus and Bayern Munich star. At 35 years old, Costa’s move has drawn attention not only because of his pedigree, but also due to Chievo’s current status in Serie D, the fourth tier of Italian football.
The Brazilian winger was last seen in action with Sydney FC, whom he joined in the summer of 2024. Expectations were high when he arrived in Australia, as his experience and flair promised to elevate the A-League side. However, the partnership did not last long.
In September, both parties mutually agreed to terminate his contract, bringing his short Australian chapter to an early end. That decision opened the door for Costa to seek a new challenge, ultimately leading him back to familiar territory in Italy.
AC Chievo’s Ambitious Move in Serie D
AC Chievo announced Costa’s arrival through their official website, confirming that the veteran midfielder has signed a contract running until the end of the current season. For a club competing in Serie D, this represents a bold and ambitious statement of intent.
Chievo are currently second in the league table and firmly in the promotion race. Adding a player of Costa’s experience could prove decisive as the club looks to return to higher levels of Italian football after recent financial and sporting struggles.
Beyond his on-field qualities, Costa is expected to bring leadership and professionalism to a relatively young squad. His presence alone is likely to raise standards in training and boost confidence within the dressing room during the crucial stages of the season.
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A Career Shaped by Elite European Football
Douglas Costa’s résumé speaks for itself. He rose to prominence with Shakhtar Donetsk, where his pace, dribbling, and creativity made him one of Europe’s most exciting wide players. Those performances earned him a move to Bayern Munich, where he won multiple domestic titles.
His subsequent spell at Juventus further cemented his reputation, as he played a key role in Serie A title-winning campaigns. Known for his direct style and ability to change games from wide areas, Costa became a familiar figure in Italian football during that period.
Later stints with clubs such as Los Angeles Galaxy and Sydney FC reflected a shift toward new experiences, but they also showed the physical challenges that come with age. Even so, his technical ability and football intelligence remain valuable assets.
What Costa’s Arrival Means for Chievo’s Season
For AC Chievo, signing Douglas Costa is about more than just adding a recognizable name. It signals ambition, belief, and a clear desire to accelerate their journey back up the Italian football pyramid. His experience in high-pressure environments could be crucial during decisive matches.
From Costa’s perspective, the move offers a chance to rediscover joy and purpose on the pitch in a familiar football culture. Italy is where he enjoyed some of his best years, and this return could reignite his motivation.
If managed carefully, this partnership could benefit both sides. Chievo gain a proven winner with elite experience, while Costa gets an opportunity to make a meaningful impact once again, even if it comes far from the Serie A spotlight. Keep following other interesting football discussions only on footballcoasters.co.uk