Mario Fontanella and Caio Prado to leave Valletta FC

Valletta FC have decided to part ways with winger Caio Prado and Mario Fontanella, the Times of Malta can confirm.

The Citizens are looking to rejuvenate their squad ahead of the new season and are looking to reduce the club’s wage bill.

Sources have told the Times of Malta that both Caio Prado and Mario Fontanella were still tied to Valletta FC on lucrative contracts and the club have decided to reach a settlement with both players and rescind their contracts.

Fontanella confirmed the news on his social media page.

“Just thank you so much for everything! The time to say goodbye, the one I never wanted to come, has arrived.Unfortunately the club is going through a difficult period and, as I have always done, I have decided to help the club by giving up my last year of contract,” Fontanella said.

“It was an honor to wear this shirt and I tried to honor it in every match and in every position I played, always putting the good of the team before mine. I want to thank the people who gave me the chance to wear this glorious jersey … Presidents Victor Scriha, Sunny, my friend and team Manager Gerard and then all the people on the committee including my friends Matt Carbonaro, Dr. Pierr Farrugia, Edward, Roderick, the staff people like Jason and Coi Coi, Oscar, Romeo and all the players and coaches with whom I have shared the field in these four years.

“A special thanks goes to all supporters with whom I have always had a special relationship. I hope I have left you with good memories both as a player and as a man. I’m sure we’ll meet again soon! Your super Mario 89”.

Caio Prado joined Valletta FC last season on a free transfer after he had left Birkirkara and made 16 appearances with the capital club, scoring one goal and providing one assist.

On the other hand, Fontanella enjoyed a far bigger association with Valletta FC as the Italian forward has enjoyed a very successful spell at the club.

In fact, since moving Valletta from Floriana in the summer of 2017, Fontanella has become a prolific goalscorer for the Citizens.

Fontanella, in his four seasons with Valletta FC, has scored no less than 42 goals in 85 appearances and provided 20 assists.

During his spell at the club he managed to win the Premier League title in season 2018-19 after a dramatic decider against Hibernians.