Former Manchester United forward Memphis Depay has vowed to “punish” Brazilian side Corinthians over “unacceptable behaviour” regarding his contract.
The Dutchman, 32, joined Corinthians in 2024 on a two-year-deal, with the club opting not to extend his contract, citing strict financial constraints.
Depay, who played 79 times and scored 20 goals with Corinthians, has hit out at the club’s move, saying he will take action.
Taking to social media, the Dutchman wrote: “Very disappointed to read that Corinthians decided not to honour our agreement in place to extend my contract for two more years.
“This renewal was explicitly agreed upon by the president as well as the sporting, legal and financial departments.
“Some people decided, however, to breach this engagement.
“I didn’t want this situation and always respected the club throughout the process, but now I am forced to react strongly in order to preserve my interests.
“In the upcoming days, I will speak publicly, but rest assured that I will not leave this unacceptable behaviour unsanctioned.”
Memphis Depay vowed to ‘punish’ Corinthians
|
GETTY
The Sao Paulo-based club explained that, for financial reasons, they are unable to keep the 32-year-old on their books.
In a statement, the club wrote: “Sport Club Corinthians Paulista has decided not to renew the contract of athlete Memphis Depay.
“This decision was taken solely and exclusively in consideration of the financial health of our institution, which demands rigorous balance and responsibility in the management of available resources.
“We would like to express our deep gratitude to player Memphis Depay and his entire team, who from the start of negotiations sought the best possible agreement.
Depay wrote: ‘In the upcoming days I will speak publicly but rest assured that I will not leave this unacceptable behaviour unsanctioned’
|
REUTERS
“To the athlete in particular, the club is eternally grateful for the dedication and the results achieved throughout his journey with us, which include 79 matches played, 20 goals scored and, above all, the conquest of three important titles: the Paulistao and the Copa do Brasil, in 2025; and the Supercopa Rei, in 2026.
“These achievements will certainly remain as a fundamental part of Corinthians’ history. We understand that the process extended beyond the traditional deadline, but this is mainly due to the fact that we are dealing with a differentiated athlete.
“The Board also recognises and values the tireless efforts of all the institution’s departments that worked to make the athlete’s stay feasible.
“However, after careful analysis, exclusively financial reasons and the commitment to responsible management of the Club prevailed.
“Given Corinthians’ current and future financial obligations, it became clear that taking on a new commitment of this magnitude would not be compatible, at this moment, with the financial balance we need to preserve to ensure the institution’s sustainability.”
The Dutchman played 79 times for the Brazilian side, scoring 20 goals
| GETTY
The statement continued: “We recognise that this was a difficult decision, but undoubtedly necessary for the future of Sport Club Corinthians Paulista.
“To clarify any doubts and discuss this matter in greater detail, the Club will organise a press conference in the coming days, during which President Osmar Stabile will be available to provide all necessary clarifications.
“We thank everyone for their understanding and will continue working so that Corinthians remains strong, solid, and victorious.”
