When Oscar dos Santos Emboaba Júnior, the 33‑year‑old Brazilian attacking midfielder, announced his departure from Shanghai Port FC on December 25, 2024, the football world took a collective breath. The move caps an eight‑year saga that saw the former Chelsea star cash in on a record‑breaking Chinese Super League deal, become the league’s highest‑paid import, and amass 248 appearances, 77 goals and 141 assists before his contract ran out at the end of the month.

While Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) has been reported by MLS Multiplex to be readying a formal offer, the Brazilian side Sao Paulo FC has already secured Oscar on a three‑year deal worth €2.3 million per season, according to statements from club president Julio Casares. The shift brings Oscar back to his homeland just as the MLS franchise eyes a marquee signing to boost its brand in a crowded North American market.

Background: From Chelsea to Shanghai

Oscar’s European pedigree was forged at Chelsea FC, where he collected two Premier League titles, an UEFA Europa League trophy and an EFL Cup between 2012 and 2016. During his five‑year spell at Stamford Bridge he logged 203 appearances, netting 38 goals and delivering 31 assists. In January 2017 the Brazilian midfielder shocked the football world by swapping London for Shanghai in a transfer valued at €60 million — a Chinese Super League (CSL) record at the time.

That deal unlocked a salary package that placed Oscar as the third‑highest‑paid footballer globally, reportedly earning €24 million a year. Over eight seasons he is believed to have pocketed roughly €175 million in wages, a figure that dwarfed the CSL’s import‑salary cap of €3 million introduced by the Chinese Football Association in 2020.

Recent Developments: Contract Expiry and Farewell

The final chapter in Shanghai unfolded on December 24, 2024, when Oscar converted a spot‑kick to secure a 1‑1 draw against South Korean side Gwangju, keeping Shanghai in contention for the AFC Champions League Elite knockout stage. A day later, the Brazilian posted a heartfelt goodbye on Weibo, describing his eight‑year stint as “out of this world” and thanking the club, fans, and city for the memories.

• 248 matches for Shanghai Port across all competitions
• 77 goals, 141 assists
• Three CSL titles, one FA Cup, one Super Cup
• Contract expired 31 December 2024

In a separate Instagram story, Julio Casares hinted at a “SuperTransfer” with a photo of himself and Oscar, confirming the Brazilian’s next destination.

Transfer Speculation: LAFC vs. Sao Paulo

LAFC’s interest has been simmering since early 2024, with the club reportedly preparing a “formal offer” that would make Oscar the highest‑paid MLS player. Sources close to the franchise say the deal would include performance‑based bonuses and a marketing clause linked to Oscar’s global brand.

However, the Brazilian side’s offer appears more straightforward: a three‑year contract, a modest €2.3 million annual salary, and the promise of playing close to family — a factor Oscar repeatedly cited as decisive. “I love Shanghai, but it’s just too far away from home for us,” he told Brazil’s Folha de S. Paulo in September 2024, noting his mother’s age and his sisters’ growing families.

Oscar’s Statements: Family First

In his Weibo farewell, Oscar said, “My mom is getting older, my sisters are having babies. We want to be closer to home.” He also lauded the quality of life in Shanghai, describing it as “something I haven’t experienced anywhere else.” The paradox of immense wealth coupled with longing for familial proximity underpins his decision to return to Brazil.

Reactions from Clubs and Fans

Shanghai Port’s management issued a brief statement expressing gratitude for Oscar’s “decade of commitment” and wishing him success in Brazil. Sao Paulo supporters erupted on social media, flooding the club’s official pages with hashtags #OscarIsHome and #SaoPauloReturns.

LAFC’s general manager, while respectful, posted a tweet that read, “We wish Oscar all the best and will continue to explore ways to bring world‑class talent to Los Angeles.” The muted response suggests the MLS outfit may recalibrate its strategy, perhaps targeting younger South American prospects instead of a veteran nearing 34.

What This Means for MLS, Chinese Football, and Brazilian Soccer

For MLS, Oscar’s decision not to cross the Pacific humbles the league’s ambition to lure high‑profile imports from Asia. The club may now pivot toward developing homegrown talent or scouting emerging stars in South America.

In China, Oscar’s exit highlights a broader exodus of marquee foreign players since the CSL’s salary‑cap reforms. Clubs are forced to rely more on domestic talent and strategic youth development, a shift that could alter the league’s competitive balance over the next five years.

Back in Brazil, Sao Paulo FC gains a technically gifted playmaker with Champions League experience, potentially boosting their domestic campaign and providing mentorship to younger squad members. Oscar’s presence also re‑energizes the club’s brand internationally, especially in markets where his name still draws attention.

Future Outlook: Oscar’s Next Chapter

Oscar will officially join Sao Paulo in January 2025, just in time for the Campeonato Paulista. Analysts predict he will likely assume a deeper‑lying midfield role, allowing younger attackers to flourish while he controls tempo and sets pieces.

Meanwhile, LAFC continues its roster overhaul, eyeing a mix of Designated Players and Homegrown talents to fill the void. The club’s front office remains optimistic that Oscar’s decision will open doors for other South American stars eager to make a splash in the United States.