The São Paulo club crashed out of the Copa Libertadores, the South American equivalent of the Champions League, against domestic rivals Flamengo this week.
The match was the former Arsenal and Chelsea winger’s last at Corinthians after he endured death threats on social media.
“Willian has asked us to break his contract. We are sorry not to have him here anymore and because it didn’t go as we hoped. But we also have to keep those who are here happy,” says club president Duilio Monteiro Alves in a statement.
It was only a year since the 34-year-old rejoined the club he made his professional debut for in 2006. However, the return has not gone according to plan. In 45 games, Willian has only been noted for one goal.
— When Corinthians lost and did not play well, my family has had to endure threats and hate on social media. My wife, my children, lately my father and sister have also been attacked, Willian told Globo Esporte.
In addition to Chelsea, Arsenal and Corinthians, Willian has also represented Russian Anzhi Makhachkala and Ukrainian Shakhtar Donetsk. Local media have linked him with a return to the Premier League and newcomers Fulham.