Corinthians confirm Memphis Depay departure after opting against renewal | OneFootball

Corinthians have confirmed Memphis Depay has left after the club chose not to renew his contract, which expired on 31 July.

The club said in a statement that the decision was taken solely to protect its financial health, and that a press conference will follow to provide further detail. The statement was signed by president Osmar Stabile, who also thanked the forward and his team for their conduct in talks.

Depay arrived in São Paulo in early August for final formalities and medicals after weeks of negotiations, and watched the Copa do Brasil tie against Internacional at Neo Química Arena on Thursday. A deal had appeared close, with coach Fernando Diniz indicating it was virtually done and executive Marcelo Paz calling it advanced, but the president chose not to proceed while the board searched for new partners.

A key hurdle was an active debt to Depay from bonuses and awards under his previous deal, worth more than R$ 42 million and potentially R$ 70 million with interest and charges. During talks, he waived additional charges, accepted a salary reduction and agreed to instalments. The club said the prolonged process was understandable for a player of his calibre, stressing the need for financial balance.

Unlike his first contract, there was no sponsor to underwrite costs, so options such as marketing revenue, product sales and events were discussed. Before travelling to the World Cup, Depay hired a specialist to seek companies to support a funding model for his stay.

He was released at the end of May to join the Netherlands for the World Cup. After their elimination on 29 June, he did not report back because of a financial clause.

Depay joined in September 2024 during a relegation fight, with Esportes da Sorte covering part of his wages. He made 79 appearances, 62 starts, with a 40-18-21 record, 20 goals and 15 assists across two seasons, winning the Campeonato Paulista, Copa do Brasil and Supercopa do Brasil.

Source: Meu Timao

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