Corinthians boost Depay support, targeting Libertadores, World Cup

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Central do Timão

·24 Februari 2026

Corinthians boost Depay support, targeting Libertadores, World Cup

By Henrique Pereira / Central do Timão Editorial Staff

Corinthians has intensified its focus on Memphis Depay’s physical conditioning at CT Joaquim Grava throughout the first weeks of 2026. Although he is not yet at his peak, as highlighted by coach Dorival Júnior last Sunday, the forward has been receiving internal praise for his professional attitude and commitment to Timão’s goals for the season.

According to ge.globo, in the very first days of January, the number 10 approached Dorival to align expectations. In their conversation, he requested greater understanding from the coaching staff regarding his use in the initial matches of the year. The Dutchman made it clear that his priorities are competing in the Copa Libertadores and the World Cup, setting a personal goal to reach peak physical condition for both tournaments.

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Photo: Rodrigo Coca/Ag. Corinthians

After 52 days of team activities in 2026, Memphis still hasn’t found his rhythm. So far, he has played in seven games, accumulated 525 minutes on the field, provided one assist, and hasn’t scored any goals. The most notable episode for the forward at the start of the season was the missed penalty in the derby against Palmeiras at Neo Química Arena.

According to ge.globo, the Brazilian calendar was identified by people working at the club as one of the main factors for the irregular start. The tight sequence of matches has made proper preparation difficult and reduced the ideal recovery time between games.

Despite the intention to better manage the forward’s playing time, Corinthians understands that the competitive context does not allow for much preservation. The team has already played the Supercopa final, faced three derbies in the initial phase of the Campeonato Paulista, played an elimination match in the state championship, and has completed three rounds in the Campeonato Brasileiro, a tournament considered a priority by the football department.

Given the sequence of matches, the club and player are seeking alternatives to minimize fatigue and accelerate his physical development. The internal plan is structured on four fronts: daily monitoring, constant dialogue with the player, strict control of training loads, and recovery protocols that extend beyond regular hours at the CT.

Internally, the forward’s dedication is seen as exemplary. Outside the club’s facilities, Memphis follows the guidance of a multidisciplinary team, made up of doctors, physiotherapists, nutritionists, and fitness trainers, maintaining discipline in his diet, rest, and recovery.

Even without intending to give up one of its key players for the decisive stretch of the Paulista, the medical department acknowledges the risk of injury in the coming weeks. The squad, including Memphis, is already showing signs of physical wear due to the marathon of matches.

To reduce the chances of problems, Corinthians has set up a specific operation focused on the forward. The expectation is that he will reach full physical fitness between the end of March and the beginning of April, a period that coincides with the club’s debut in the Libertadores group stage.

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