How Corinthians rebuilt strong ties with Memphis after controversies | OneFootball

The board of directors of Corinthians had to overcome some obstacles, but managed to reestablish a good relationship with forward Memphis Depay. The Dutchman, who had been involved in some recent controversial episodes, has changed his attitude behind the scenes and now feels happy at the alvinegro club.

According to information obtained by Gazeta Esportiva, several conversations between Memphis and the club’s new board, presided over by Osmar Stabile, were fundamental to improving their relationship. The Dutchman gained a clearer understanding of Timão’s financial and administrative problems, showing understanding.

The report found that the number 10 had been feeling distant from Corinthians’ top management, largely due to the departure of former director Pedro Silveira. Silveira, who served as head of the Financial Department during Augusto Melo’s administration, was the link between Memphis and the Corinthians board.

Without him, the Dutchman cited a lack of communication, especially regarding some financial issues that had not been paid by the club. Timão even delayed payments related to image rights, as well as the bonus for this year’s Paulista championship title.

(Photo: Rodrigo Gazzanel/Agência Corinthians)

The situation upset Memphis, who missed a team training session at CT Dr. Joaquim Grava. On that occasion, Osmar Stabile had a meeting with the player and explained the difficulties the club was facing. The case also led to demands on executive Fabinho Soldado to act as a bridge between the player and management.

The conversation was crucial for the Dutchman to understand Timão’s delicate financial situation, something he had not been aware of due to the lack of communication during Augusto Melo’s impeachment and Stabile’s arrival. Accustomed to European football, the player also realized that situations like this are common in Brazil.

The number 10’s understanding also helped Corinthians negotiate debts with the player. The club needs to pay R$ 11 million for contractual goals he achieved between his signing and July 31 – he was listed for 70% of the matches and contributed to 29 team goals.

The deadline for this payment was August 20, which was not met. In addition, starting September 9, Timão will have to pay the first installment of the signing bonus agreed upon when the player was signed, amounting to 2 million euros (about R$ 12 million).

In a financial crisis, Corinthians lacks resources and is trying to extend the payment schedule, as was done with the bonus for the state championship. The R$ 4.7 million Memphis was entitled to for the title was divided into three installments. Two of them have already been paid by the board.

The improved relationship has even been reflected in the player’s commitment. Gazeta Esportiva found that he dedicated himself to treating a grade 2 thigh injury, speeding up his return to the pitch.

Proof of this is that the Dutchman was listed again and came on in the final moments of the match against Athletico-PR last Wednesday, in the Copa do Brasil. Recovered, he played for 12 minutes at Ligga Arena. The initial estimate when he was injured on August 7 was at least a month away from the field.

Despite some controversies and criticism, Memphis Depay has good numbers for Corinthians in 2025. He has found the net eight times and provided ten assists in 36 matches.

With the striker available, Dorival Júnior is now preparing the team for the derby against Palmeiras, for the 22nd round of the Brazilian Championship. The Derby is scheduled for this Sunday, at 6:30 pm (Brasília time), at Neo Química Arena.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.