11 July 2007, by Joao Pedro

Ze Carlos turns his back on Braga

Brazilian striker rejects new deal and pens Apoel contract

Against all expectations Braga striker Ze Carlos has decided not to continue at Braga, signing instead for Cypriot team Apoel Nicosia.

After several weeks of negotiations Carlos was expected to report for pre-season training and to finally sign an extension and improvement to his contract. However, in a dramatic late twist the Brazilian marksman has left the northerners.

Braga began pre-season training last week without Ze Carlos, who requested more time in Brazil, allegedly to witness the birth of his second son. However, it now transpires the striker and his agent were involved in secret negotiations with other clubs.

Braga ran out of patience with the speedy front man, who earned the nickname ‘Ze do Golo’, as explained by club president Antonio Salvador:

“From this moment onwards Ze Carlos is no longer part of the squad because nothing or nobody can be above the interests of the club.”

“People have to understand that whoever is here has to be professional, has to be honest and cannot put anything ahead of the institution,” said an irritated Salvador.

The 32-year-old has signed a one-year contract with APOEL with an option for another, and joins Portuguese players Ricardo Fernandes, Helio Pinto and Nuno Morais at the Cypriot champions.