SAO PAULO — The current standout soccer player in Brazil today didn’t emerge from the sun-soaked beaches of Rio de Janeiro or play in the muddy fields of São Paulo, but rather from the chilly, pastoral village of Moordrecht in the Netherlands. Memphis Depay, a 30-year-old striker, stirred considerable interest last month when he revealed his move to South America after an unfulfilling stint with Barcelona and Atlético Madrid. This unexpected shift left many in awe, especially since other prominent clubs, including some competing in the Champions League, were keen to acquire him.
The reasons behind his choice to play in Brazil, where footballers’ salaries lag behind even those of mid-tier European teams, are puzzling. Moreover, joining Corinthians—a team grappling with significant financial issues and facing possible relegation—raises further questions. Many are curious about how this decision would affect Depay’s visibility to Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman in the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup. In his inaugural press conference with Corinthians, Depay admitted, “I don’t have the answer for that.” Nevertheless, he asserted that the positive vibes he felt compelled him to commit to a lengthy contract with a club that has a rich history of triumphs but is currently in the midst of a five-year title drought, compounded by debts nearing 2.4 billion reais (approximately $400 million) and a political crisis involving its president.
Soon after his arrival, Depay played a pivotal role in transforming Corinthians’ season. Under his leadership, the club not only managed to steer clear of relegation but also clinched a spot in next year’s Copa Libertadores, propelled by an impressive streak of nine consecutive victories in the Brazilian league. Depay demonstrated his on-field prowess by netting seven goals in just 14 matches, including an impressive acrobatic bicycle kick that contributed to a commanding 3-0 victory over Grêmio in the season’s final match.
“I’ve said from the beginning. I can bring my experience, my talents, and I can inspire the team to fight for something. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have come,” Depay commented to reporters following an emphatic 3-0 win against Bahia. He emphasized that despite the allure of higher salaries elsewhere, this challenge resonated deeply with him.
The crux of Depay’s success in Brazil lies in his ability to score important goals; five of his seven league goals were crucial for Corinthians, tipping the balance in their favor during tightly contested matches. His scoring included two free-kick goals, a long-range shot, and a powerful strike from an acute angle, supplemented by two composed finishes that had often been squandered by teammates prior to his arrival. The enchanting bicycle kick left fans pondering how much more he could have brought had he joined the team sooner.
Corinthians finished the season in seventh place with 56 points, comfortably above the relegation zone yet trailing 23 points behind champions Botafogo.
The Dutch striker quickly became a fan favorite across Brazil. After a thrilling 4-2 victory over Criciúma, supporters flocked to snap photos with Depay, who graciously accommodated each request. This pattern has continued since his joining the team.
“I like to do his celebration, putting the fingers on the ears. I have done that many times,” expressed Miguel Fernandes, an 11-year-old fan of Palmeiras, who enjoys playing soccer in both school and the streets of Campinas, a nearby city. “This is the first time I like a Corinthians player. I’m not getting a Memphis headband because my father would not approve, but he is nice.”
Depay has gained admiration not only for his performance on the pitch but also for his community involvement. He has been seen engaging with locals in São Paulo’s favelas, enjoying music events, and even collaborating with local rappers, all while urging Neymar to join him.
“Memphis, beyond his skills and international fame, brought us experience and goals, and he also gave us his big personality. He made Corinthians seen worldwide,” noted Fabinho Soldado, a soccer executive at Corinthians. “He has blended very well with Brazilian culture, making people feel closer to him.”
Having played for renowned clubs like PSV Eindhoven, Manchester United, and Lyon before his tenure in Spain, Depay mentioned he has never felt as connected to a fanbase as he does now. He often celebrates victories with fans, has learned chants in Portuguese, and expressed that this is merely the beginning of his journey here.
“South and Latin America have a different energy. They are more fascinated about life. How they embrace life is unique, it’s not just about football,” he commented after a win against Bahia. “You cannot compare that with European fans. I’m truly impressed. I’m always eager to be on the pitch.”
Depay also reflected on the potential to bridge gaps between different social classes, stating, “I want to go there to help them.” He recognizes the unique influence he could have by connecting with communities during his time in Brazil.
Despite uncertainties regarding the Brazilian league’s competitiveness, Depay has yet to rejoin the Netherlands national team since his arrival in South America. This concern is heightened for a striker who ranks behind only Robin van Persie in the Netherlands’ all-time scoring list. His hopes lie in the possibility of making long flights for European World Cup qualifiers in the forthcoming year.
“If the national team needs me, they know where to find me,” Depay remarked, indicating his hope that Koeman would come to witness his performances at Corinthians’ NeoQuimica Arena. Fans are optimistic that Depay will remain an influential figure in São Paulo, inspiring other European players to explore opportunities in South America.
