Melbourne Rebels’ English five-eighth Danny Cipriani says he broke down telling his teammates about his surprise departure from the Super Rugby club.

Cipriani and the club parted ways on Monday with the 24-year-old wanting to return early to England.

He was set to leave in August at the end of the Super season after signing a three-year deal with the Sale Sharks in northern England.

Cipriani, who is particularly close with Wallabies stars James O’Connor and Kurtley Beale, tweeted he couldn’t hold back the tears when telling the players his news.

“So I said goodbye to the boys: got 5/6 words out couldn’t hold my tears back. Thank u truly for making it special. Met some amazing people,” Cipriani tweeted.

“Very tight group of lads and only going to get stronger!! Thank you everyone… Some great memories.

“Going to be sad to leave all my teammates. Made some friends for life over here.”

Cipriani, who has played seven Tests for England, had a troubled first year with Melbourne in 2011 and was sidelined for a month due to off-field disciplinary issues.

But he appeared more settled this season, seemingly relishing his growing backline combination with O’Connor and Beale.

However his form wasn’t good in his last match and there was talk of him being relegated to the bench.

It’s a blow for the Rebels who have lost O’Connor until June after he suffered liver damage in their last-start loss to the NSW Waratahs.

The club is set to issue a statement on his departure later on Monday.