Castan says heartfelt farewell to Roma

The Brazil international, who joined the club in the summer of 2012, has been given the opportunity to continue his playing career elsewhere - reaching an agreement with the club to end his contract.

The 31-year-old enjoyed a sparkling start to his time with the Giallorossi - only to see his career derailed in 2014 when a scan revealed he had a brain tumour.

After extensive treatment the central defender made a full recovery. In his farewell to Roma fans he called that the 'proudest victory' of his career, adding that he hoped he taught fans to never give up in anything they do.

Castan wrote:

"The day has come where we say goodbye, today ends a six-year spell with Roma. I arrived here as a kid full of dreams; a first season that was so-so but saw me make my debut for Brazil, a second where I thought we would realize the biggest dream, the title, only to face an opponent (Juventus) difficult to stop.

"Nevertheless, I went on holiday that summer with the thought that the third season would be the one - I felt in the form of my life and was sure that we would win it all. Unfortunately it was then that I was faced with a challenge I never even dreamed of. Only myself and my family just how tough and how long that battle was, the proudest victory of my career. God, yes, Him, he exists - because without him I would not have made him and I thank him every day.

"Over time I lost my place at Roma, but I will forever be grateful to everyone there. I did not manage to win a trophy with you but I hope I gave you an important lesson - to never give up, never ever give up! It does not matter how often or how badly you get beaten, how difficult it seems, never give up! I still have not given up and will never give up!

"I salute you all, I will follow a new path now but I will always support Roma along the way! The kid full of dreams continues his adventure! God will guide the way! Forza Roma sempre!"