Corinthians star sparks TV storm with bold social media swipe | OneFootball

Memphis Depay stirred the conversation among Corinthians supporters and Brazilian football media on Monday with a pointed social media post aimed at former Corinthians player and TV host Neto. In an Instagram Story, Depay snapped a photo of Neto on the set of "Os Donos da Bola" and digitally added a clown nose to his face, adding the message: "My favourite player, 10 Neto" in an unmistakably sarcastic tone.

This move marks the latest chapter in an ongoing exchange of jabs between the Dutch forward and the outspoken broadcaster. Earlier the same day, Neto had used his live show to respond to Depay’s recent rap song, in which the striker claimed that criticism from Neto is only for show and helps boost the program’s audience figures. According to Depay, "the criticism you make of me on live TV helps to pay the bills because it gets viewers."

Neto did not hold back in his reply, directly addressing Depay with typical forthrightness. "I saw that Memphis Depay made a song saying I’m crazy and that every time I talk about him I pay my bills. Don’t be an idiot, you moron," Neto said. He continued: "I don’t need anyone to pay my bills. Who needs to pay their bills is Corinthians. I help you, I help pay your six million reais per month salary... I’ve been a Fiel Torcedor (Corinthians member/supporter) for 20 years, I have my seat, and I put money into Corinthians. I know you made a song, that’s fine, but I don’t have to make my money talking about you—you’re extremely clueless when you say that."

The feud draws comment and amusement from fans of various stripes, exposing the ongoing tension between high-profile players and powerful figures in Brazilian football media. Some supporters used online forums to defend either side, with a few questioning whether Depay should focus more on training than watching TV and others suggesting Neto’s media style is too abrasive.

Depay’s social media swipe is unlikely to end the war of words between current stars and the talk show circuit, especially in the pressure cooker of São Paulo football. For now, it adds another storyline off the pitch as the Dutchman navigates the challenges—both sporting and cultural—of his time in Brazil.

Source: UOL

Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images