Memphis starts for Corinthians for first time after contract saga in Santos defeat | OneFootball

Corinthians lost 1-0 to Santos at Neo Química Arena in round 25, as Memphis Depay made his first start in three months.

His previous start was on 27 May, a 2-0 loss to Platense in the Libertadores, and he was substituted at half-time after 19 passes, one shot and one dribble. According to Meu Timao, that came as he returned from a grade two right-thigh injury in March 2026.

At the 2026 World Cup he was eliminated in the last 32 by Morocco on penalties, without playing in that match. He featured three times, all as a substitute, totalling 41 minutes.

A renewal saga followed. Corinthians first said they would not extend his deal beyond 31 July for financial reasons, then president Osmar Stabile agreed a new contract to 31 July 2028 with adjustments and a renegotiated debt of more than R$ 40 million in bonuses.

Sunday was his third outing since signing. He also played in the 1-0 win over Rosario Central, assisting Breno Bidon to clinch quarter-final qualification, and the 2-1 loss at Coritiba.

Against Santos he completed 90 minutes for the first time since 28 February, when Corinthians lost 1-0 to Novorizontino. He completed 22 of 28 passes, two dribbles and had two shots.

In 2026 he has one goal and two assists in 17 appearances for Corinthians. They host Chapecoense next Sunday at 19:30 in round 26 at the Casa do Povo, and remain 10th after missing the chance to close on the 2027 Libertadores places.

Source: Meu Timao

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