By Rune Gjerulff@runegjerulff

Stuttgart to part ways with Gonzalo Castro

VfB Stuttgart and Gonzalo Castro will part ways this summer.
VfB Stuttgart have announced that club captain Gonzalo Castro will leave on a free transfer at the end of the season.

The 33-year-old midfielder's current contract expires this summer and will not be extended.

"In three years at VfB, 'Gonzo' has made a major contribution to the recent positive sporting development. After a difficult first season for him personally at VfB and after getting relegated, he rolled up his sleeves and as a leading player helped the club to promotion," said chairman of the board Thomas Hitzlsperger.

"As captain, he has not only shone in the current season, but has also helped to teach many young players the demands of professional football and thus actively supported our chosen path. After three years, our journey together will now come to an end in the summer, until then we wish for a successful conclusion to what has been a very enjoyable VfB season so far."

Castro, who has scored eight goals and made 14 assists in 83 appearances for Stuttgart in total, commented:

"I've had an intense time at VfB with ups and downs. The direct promotion to the top flight after we our relegation, which was very disappointing for all of us, was a particularly emotional moment. I want to play the last games of the season as successfully as possible with VfB. It's a shame that I won't be able to say goodbye to the VfB fans in the stadium because of corona. I wish VfB all the best for the future."

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