Former Man United star faces ban from football after making obscene gesture | OneFootball

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Memphis Depay is the subject of a Conmebol investigation following a gesture towards Estudiantes supporters, De Telegraaf reports.

Images show the Corinthians attacker raising his middle finger in the direction of the Argentine club’s fans after his side equalised during Wednesday’s Copa Libertadores quarter-final.

A turbulent Corinthians chapter

The incident is the latest development in Depay’s eventful spell with the Brazilian club. TPP covered another twist in the former Manchester United forward’s Corinthians saga in August when the club released him over a dispute about money.

Subsequently, Depay extended his contract with Corinthians only days before the latest controversy, placing his immediate playing future on a firmer footing.

Corinthians then faced Estudiantes in the Copa Libertadores quarter-finals on Wednesday. The contest finished 1-1, with Kaio César scoring the Brazilian side’s equaliser.

Estudiantes subsequently lodged a formal complaint with the South American football confederation, calling for the Netherlands international to be sanctioned.

Complaint focuses on 49th-minute celebration

The gesture occurred immediately after Kaio César found the net in the 49th minute. Footage circulating on social media appears to show Depay turning towards the Estudiantes support before raising his middle finger.

Estudiantes said the action “was unmistakably directed against our supporters”.

The Argentine club added: “Estudiantes once again emphasises the importance of adhering to the motto that states that respect is the foundation.”

However, the potential consequences remain unclear. South American media cited in the Dutch report indicate that there are no specific sanctions prescribed for breaching the relevant guidelines.

Conmebol will therefore have to assess the complaint, the available footage and the surrounding circumstances before deciding what disciplinary action is appropriate.

Depay’s profile beyond Old Trafford

Depay, now 32, showed great early promise at United, but his form and talent seemed to hit a brick wall and he was moved on.

His career then took him to Lyon, Barcelona and Atletico, before he landed in South America, where he represents one of Brazil’s most prominent clubs in Corinthians.

Memphis is the Netherlands men’s national team’s all-time leading goalscorer.

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