A veteran of 92 games for Roar, Reinaldo said that he had no choice but to leave in the middle of their most successful season after he was offered a two-year contract worth nearly $2 million by struggling Qatar Stars League side Al-Ahli.

With a heavy heart, he thanked the club for their treatment throughout his five-year tenure, and lauded their generosity in granting him an early release to take up a more lucrative deal.

"What (coach) Ange (Postecoglou) and the staff did for me I didn't think anyone could do," he said.

"We are in the middle of the season and when I spoke with them about the offer I had, they said that it my decision and they were going to agree whether I stay or go and they just wanted to see me happy.

"That's what Brisbane Roar is, it's a family, and I just want to appreciate what everyone did for me."

Reinaldo admitted that his decision to leave the club was made even harder by their amazing success in the Hyundai A-League 2010-11 season thus far.

"The last four years were great to play here, but this year with Ange a lot of things have changed (for the better)," he said.

"He tried to represent this club the best way. We can see now with the success of the team. From my point of view the best team is the Roar this year.

"And I hope we continue to build the Brisbane Roar football club."

Reinaldo was presented with a framed jersey by club Chairman Chris Bombolas who thanked him for his services, both on and off the field.

Bombolas added: "You've been a great ambassador, and I know that your heart still has plenty of Brisbane Roar in it.

"We know you'll be keeping an eye on us and we'll certainly be keeping an eye on you. We're excited for Reinaldo and his new venture but we hate to see one of our favourite sons go.

''The best way we can describe is a great bloke, well respected by his teammates and he will be missed at the club."