Basílio sees Yuri Alberto as a Corinthians idol, wants Memphis to stay | OneFootball

Corinthians idol Basílio answered whether striker Yuri Alberto can be considered a club idol in an exclusive interview with Gazeta Esportiva. In addition, the "Angel Foot" revealed his expectations for Timão this season.

The hero of the 1977 Paulista title believes that Yuri Alberto has already entered the hall of Corinthians idols. The former player highlighted the overcoming journey of the number 9, who has already lifted three trophies and is Timão’s top scorer in the 21st century, with 79 goals.

“He’s already an idol, he earned it. Those who saw his arrival, the problems he faced and overcame, he became a top scorer. He’s an idol. We see it in the lineup, when his name is called the whole crowd shouts, the children cheer, they sing for Yuri Alberto,” said Basílio.

The black-and-white idol has good prospects for Corinthians in 2026. He praised the signings made in this transfer window and believes that Dorival Júnior’s team can win even more titles. There have already been two under the coach’s command: the Copa do Brasil in 2025 and this year’s Supercopa do Brasil.

“I see it positively. First because of the signings, second because Corinthians has always shown to have a strong, competitive starting team. The expectation is to see Corinthians fighting for more titles,” he projected.

Should Memphis renew?

The possibility of competing for trophies, however, depends on the stay of Memphis Depay. The Dutch striker has a contract with Corinthians only until the middle of this year and may leave the team after the World Cup.

Basílio recognizes the player’s importance to Timão and, despite the high sums involved, hopes that the number 10 will renew his contract with the club from Parque São Jorge.

“For me, he has to stay. I didn’t know he was as important as I’m seeing now. When he’s on the field, the team’s production is much higher,” said the Angel Foot.

See also:  All the news from Gazeta Esportiva Gazeta Esportiva’s YouTube Channel Follow Gazeta Esportiva on Instagram 

Basílio is one of the greatest idols in Corinthians’ history. He was the scorer of the goal that won the 1977 Paulista title, ending a drought of almost 23 years without lifting a trophy. The former athlete also won the State Championship in 1979 and scored 29 goals in 253 matches wearing the Timão shirt.

Last Thursday, Angel Foot was honored for his 77th birthday before the match against Capivariano, in the Paulista Championship, at Neo Química Arena.

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