Douglas Costa has completed a move from Italian fourth-tier football to the Middle East. The Brazilian winger has left Serie D club Chievo to join Al Ittifaq, where he will team up with former Italy international Mario Balotelli.
The transfer marks the end of a brief but active stint in Italy for the former Bayern Munich and Juventus star. Costa featured in 11 matches for Chievo, registering one assist during his time with the Verona-based club. He had joined the Serie D side in January while technically out of contract until 2026, seeking regular playing time following previous spells with Grêmio, Bayern Munich, Juventus and LA Galaxy.
Strategic arrangement
The switch to Al Ittifaq was not a sudden decision. Italian entrepreneur Pietro Laterza owns both Chievo and the Middle Eastern club, and the arrangement was designed to effectively station the player in Italy until foreign player registration slots became available at his new employer.
Balotelli played a key role in arranging the initial Chievo move earlier this year, acting as an intermediary with director Andrea Fulco. The two forwards, who have maintained a close friendship, will now share a dressing room again.
Squad strengthening continues
The club may not stop at Costa. Reports indicate Al Ittifaq are also weighing up a move for Enock Barwuah, who is Balotelli’s brother. The younger sibling currently represents Serie D side Desenzano.
Costa’s departure leaves Chievo without an experienced attacking option as they continue their campaign in the Italian fourth tier. The club was re-founded in Serie D following the financial collapse of the original top-flight outfit, and Costa’s signing was seen as a major coup for the reborn team, even if his stay was always intended to be temporary.