Corinthians end Memphis Depay talks over financial concerns

Corinthians will not renew Memphis Depay’s contract because of the Brazilian club’s financial situation, with the board saying a new deal would not be compatible with the need to maintain financial balance.

The decision was announced in an official statement on Wednesday, with Corinthians stressing that it was based exclusively on financial considerations and was not related to the Dutch forward’s performances during his time at the club.

“Corinthians has decided not to renew the contract of player Memphis Depay. This decision was made exclusively for financial reasons related to the financial health of the institution, which requires balance and responsibility in the management of the available resources,” the club said.

Corinthians thanked Depay and his representatives for their efforts during the negotiations, saying: “We extend our sincere thanks to player Memphis Depay and his entire team, who, from the beginning of the negotiations, sought to reach the best possible agreement.”

The club also praised the contribution made by Depay since his arrival, highlighting his commitment and his record in a Corinthians shirt.

“We especially thank the player for his dedication and the results he achieved throughout his time with us, which included playing 79 matches and scoring 20 goals, and, most importantly, winning three important trophies,” Corinthians added.

Depay helped Corinthians win the Paulista and Copa do Brasil in 2025 before adding the Supercopa Rei in 2026. The club said those achievements would remain an important part of its history.

“These achievements will certainly remain an essential part of Corinthians’ history,” the statement said.

The club acknowledged that discussions over Depay’s future had continued beyond the usual deadline. Corinthians explained: “We understand that this process extended beyond the usual deadline, but this was mainly because we were dealing with a player of a special calibre.”

The board also paid tribute to the work carried out by several club administrations in an attempt to keep Depay, but said the financial implications ultimately determined the outcome.

“After careful analysis, purely financial reasons and the commitment to responsible management of the club prevailed,” Corinthians said.

It added: “Considering Corinthians’ current and future financial commitments, it became clear that taking on a new commitment of this scale would not currently be compatible with the financial balance we need to maintain to guarantee the sustainability of the institution.”

The club concluded: “We recognise that this was a difficult decision, but it was certainly necessary for the future of Corinthians.”

Corinthians said it would hold a news conference in the coming days, attended by club president Osmar Stabile, to provide further details and answer questions about the decision not to continue with Depay.

Depay’s time in Brazil therefore ends after 79 appearances and 20 goals, along with the three trophies he helped Corinthians win. His performances for the club had been highly regarded, but the financial demands of a new agreement were judged to be unsustainable under the club’s current and expected future obligations.