Memphis Depay says he's used to ‘haters’ and on joining Corinthians | OneFootball

Corinthians forward Memphis Depay gave an interview to the Dutch media outlet Ziggo Sports and highlighted the reasons that led him to accept the offer from the club at Parque São Jorge in September 2024, even with opportunities to remain in European football. In his response, he emphasized the Brazilian people’s passion for the sport and mentioned his desire to live new experiences.

“As I’ve said a few times before, I had options in Europe too, but I was ready to try something different. The passion (of Brazilians) for football, but also for music, culture, and fashion, was something incredible to experience. People here (in Brazil) really take care of one another, and the sun is always shining here. Those were the kinds of things I needed. Here, I wake up in a different way,” he began.

Photo: Rodrigo Coca/Agência Corinthians

The number 10 of the Parque São Jorge club was also asked about the criticism he has been facing in recent months and said he has been used to situations like this since he was 16 years old. Memphis says that, since childhood, he has been accustomed to high-pressure environments. Before arriving in Brazil, the Dutchman had a spell at Atlético de Madrid in Spain, where he did not renew his contract.

“There’s a reason why I’ve gotten to where I’ve gotten, scored so many goals, and provided so many assists, but I didn’t do any of that alone. You always need the team and the coaches. I don’t care about always being criticized, since I can’t make people stop, but it’s something I’ve lived with for a long time. I’ve had haters since I was 16. So I’m probably doing things right since I was 16. That’s my mindset,” he continued.

In one year and seven months at Corinthians, he has 20 goals and 15 assists in 77 matches (61 as a starter), playing a decisive role in the team’s three titles during that span: the Campeonato Paulista (2025), the Copa do Brasil (2025), and the Supercopa do Brasil (2026). In his first months at the club, he was crucial in the team’s surge in the 2024 Brasileirão — from the relegation zone to the Libertadores qualifying stage.

“Of course, sometimes it’s challenging to deal with so much criticism, but you have to know how to face it. I’m someone who does what I feel like doing. But that is seen as a problem wherever I go, because my personality is authentic and versatile. People quickly create problems on top of that. They forget everything that surrounds me. I ask myself: why do people care about the headband I wear?”, he pointed out.

Lastly, he commented on going to the 2026 World Cup, which will take place between June and July in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Recently, Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman said that, to go to the World Cup, Memphis needs to be in full physical condition. He is currently recovering from a muscle strain in his thigh, suffered on March 22. This year, he has played 12 matches, with one goal and one assist.

“On the day I really retire, then people can draw their conclusions. But that time hasn’t come yet […] I sent a message to everyone by coming to Brazil. At the time, many people thought: ‘This guy is finished,’ but I’m still doing my thing with the national team too. I’m only 32 years old. Relax, guys,” he concluded.

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This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.