Fernando has been a consistent performer for Adelaide, notching up 16 goals over two seasons.

“Through the AFC Champions League (2007) when his future was up in the air, he told me he wanted to play and give everything for the club and you have to respect someone under those circumstances,” said Adelaide coach Aurelio Vidmar.

Fernando himself was disappointed to be moving on but says he harbours no ill-felling after failing to reach a contract agreement. He has also stated he will not play for any other A-League club. “I made an offer that I thought was right in my mind and unfortunately we didn’t agree but I’m happy to have been part of the club for two years,” he said.

“It’s always a little bit hard when you have to finish something but I’m happy to go back home and enjoy life with my family. I’m sad because I’m leaving a really good club who has supported me in every way that I needed and I think it was a really successful time that I had here in Adelaide. I just hope the club can keep going well.”

Fernando has ruled himself out of Adelaide's final AFC Champions League clash against Dong Tam Long An at Hindmarsh Stadium on Wednesday night with a hamstring injury, but he will be present at the stadium to bid fans farewell.