Memphis Depay exit sparks backlash as nearly 80% of Corinthians fans oppose decision | OneFootball

Corinthians confirmed on Tuesday that Memphis Depay will depart after a decision taken by president Osmar Stabile. A fan poll has shown heavy opposition to the move.

According to Meu Timao, 50% of respondents viewed Depay as a dressing-room leader who should have been renewed, while 29.9% also backed an extension given the club’s three transfer bans, a combined 79.9% in favour. By contrast, 14.5% supported Stabile’s cost-cutting stance and 5.7% felt his cycle had ended, totalling 20.2% against his stay.

The decision was presented as solely about the club’s financial health. Depay had agreed to a pay cut and to forgo other contractual benefits to stay until July 2028.

Despite the announcement, the outcome may not be definitive, with pressure on Stabile increasing since Tuesday night. That could yet lead to renewed talks with the Dutch forward.

Depay arrived in September 2024 as Corinthians battled relegation, strengthening an attack that then featured Yuri Alberto, Romero, Pedro Raul, Giovane, Pedro Henrique, Talles Magno and Héctor Hernández. Esportes da Sorte contributed to his wages.

He played 79 times, starting 62, for 40 wins, 18 draws and 21 defeats. Across two seasons he recorded 20 goals and 15 assists, 35 goal involvements, and won the Campeonato Paulista, Copa do Brasil and Supercopa do Brasil.

Source: Meu Timao

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”