German keeper Hildebrand leaves Valencia

VALENCIA, Spain (AP) -- Valencia goalkeeper Timo Hildebrand left the Spanish team by mutual consent Thursday after falling out of favor with coach Unai Emery.

Hildebrand, who was under contract until June 2010, was replaced in the starting team this season by Brazilian signing Renan Brito.

"Valencia wishes Hildebrand the best of luck in his future professional career," the club said on its Web site.

Hildebrand joined Valencia on a free transfer in July 2007 after winning the German league title with Stuttgart. He became the team's first-choice 'keeper last season when then-coach Ronald Koeman axed former Spain international Santiago Canizares, helping Valencia win the Copa del Rey in April.

Valencia is in third place in the Spanish league, five points behind leader Barcelona, which it plays on Saturday.

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