Zhytomyr, Ukraine – Talles Costa, the 23-year-old Brazilian midfielder, has terminated his contract with Ukrainian Premier League side Polissya Zhytomyr, citing the ongoing war with Russia and the resulting anxiety and disruption to his life. Costa, who joined Polissya in February 2024, expressed a desire to be closer to his family and find a stable environment to continue his career.
Costa’s departure highlights the continuing impact of the conflict on the Ukrainian football league and the difficult decisions faced by foreign players. Whereas the league has continued to operate, the security situation remains precarious, and players have had to adapt to frequent air raid sirens and the possibility of disruptions to training and matches.
The midfielder, who came through the youth ranks at São Paulo, made his first team debut for the Brazilian club in April 2021. He quickly became a promising talent, known for his versatility and work rate. He ultimately made 36 appearances for Tricolor, scoring no goals, before his move to Ukraine. He was also a member of the Brazilian U-17 team that won the 2019 World Cup.
“This was not a remarkably difficult decision to make, given all the circumstances we are living through here in Ukraine,” Costa said, according to a publication by Itatiaia. “I’m very far from my family, from my wife, and it’s rare to have a moment when I can see them, in addition to this whole war situation that ends up leaving us very anxious.”
Costa described the unsettling reality of life in Ukraine during wartime. “Out of nowhere, we have to go down to bunkers, stay hidden, and all of this is very bad,” he explained. He also acknowledged that he hadn’t been receiving consistent playing time with Polissya, adding to his desire for a change. “Besides that, I haven’t been getting many opportunities with the team, so we talked internally and the club also understood that this would be the right thing to do.”
Despite the challenges, Costa expressed gratitude to Polissya for the opportunity to play in Europe. “I’m grateful to Polissya for believing in my football, in my work, and for also giving me excellent things, the dream of playing in Europe,” he stated. “I also had many good moments here. But I feel it’s time to look for a new challenge, to be happy again doing what I love most, which is playing football. Now it’s time to work and wait to see what the market will offer. I hope to be back on the pitch as soon as possible.”
During his time with Polissya, Costa made a total of 39 appearances across all competitions, scoring one goal. He also featured in the UEFA Europa Conference League. According to Transfermarkt, his market value is currently estimated at €1.00 million.
Back in Brazil, Costa’s name is still well-regarded. He won the 2021 Campeonato Paulista and the 2023 Copa do Brasil with São Paulo. Observers have suggested a potential return to the club, particularly given his availability on a free transfer and his familiarity with the environment at Cotia, São Paulo’s youth academy.
Costa’s early career at São Paulo showed promise, though he faced competition for playing time. He was described as a “strong, talented young player, intense in marking and quick,” who consistently made a positive impact when given the opportunity. His move to Ukraine at age 21 was seen as a chance to gain valuable European experience.
Now, with that experience under his belt, Costa is seeking a new chapter in his career. The circumstances of his departure from Polissya are undoubtedly difficult, but he remains a player with potential, and his next move will be closely watched by clubs both in Brazil and abroad. The situation underscores the broader challenges facing athletes in regions affected by conflict, where personal safety and well-being must often accept precedence over professional ambitions.
As of March 27, 2026, Talles Costa is a free agent and actively seeking a new club. His representatives are reportedly exploring options in several European leagues, as well as a potential return to Brazil. The next step in his career will depend on finding a club that can offer both a competitive environment and a sense of stability.
Archysport will continue to follow this story and provide updates as they become available.
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