Matheus Pereira savours Corinthians re-debut and explains derby flashpoint | OneFootball

Matheus Pereira marked his Corinthians return in the Majestoso, reappearing in Sunday’s 1-1 draw with São Paulo at Neo Química Arena and calling the moment emotional.

According to Meu Timao, the midfielder is the club’s second signing of 2026, joining on loan from Fortaleza until year end with a purchase option in a deal valued at R$ 1.8 million, paid in 10 instalments of R$ 180,000. Gabriel Paulista has already arrived, while moves for Kaio César, from Al-Hilal, and Pedro Milans are progressing.

Speaking at CT Joaquim Grava on Tuesday, he admitted pre-match nerves. He said a derby return before the Fiel made him and his family proud after almost a decade away.

He also addressed the flashpoint with goalkeeper Rafael after Breno Bidon’s equaliser, saying it stemmed only from the desire to win. With stoppage time remaining, he grabbed the ball to hasten the restart in the hope of forcing a late turnaround, lifted by the Itaquera crowd.

Pereira described a special connection with Neo Química Arena, adding that the stadium gives him positive energy and, as a corinthiano, he is always happy to play there. He intends to maintain the same level of commitment whenever selected.

Available to Dorival Júnior’s staff, he could feature again when Corinthians visit Santos at 19:30 on Thursday at Vila Belmiro in the fourth round of the Campeonato Paulista. The team are seeking a response after two matches without a win in the State competition.

Source: Meu Timao