Brazilian defender Juan has brought an end to his five-year stint with Roma.

The 33-year-old, who joined the Italian side from Bayer Leverkusen, has opted to continue his career back in his homeland with Internacional.

Discussing his exit from the Romans, Juan revealed that he felt the time was right for him to embark on a new challenge.

"Why am I leaving? Because in football there are cycles and mine at Roma has been really good," he told Gazzetta dello Sport.

"The thing I'll always take with me is the respect I have always had from my team-mates.

"I hope the supporters will remember me as I am."

The centre-back made 117 appearances during his spell with Roma.