Depay accuses Corinthians of breaking contract renewal agreement

August 12, 2026 8:26 am

Ex- Man United player, Memphis Depay, has accused Corinthians of breaking an agreement to extend his contract after the Brazilian club decided against renewing his deal, citing financial concerns.

The Netherlands international, who joined Corinthians in 2024, claims a new two-year contract had already been agreed by the club’s president and its sporting, legal and financial departments before the decision was reversed.

“Very disappointed to read that Corinthians decided not to honour our agreement in place to extend my contract for 2 more years,” Depay wrote on social media on Wednesday.

He added that the renewal had been explicitly approved by the club’s leadership and key departments, accusing unnamed individuals of breaching the agreement.

“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,” the 32-year-old said.

Depay also warned that he intends to speak publicly about the dispute in the coming days.

“In the upcoming days I will speak publicly but rest assured that I will not leave this unacceptable behaviour unsanctioned,” he said.

Corinthians announced that it would not renew Depay’s contract, saying the decision was made because of the club’s financial situation. The club said taking on another commitment of the size required to retain the forward would not be compatible with the financial balance needed to ensure its sustainability.

The Brazilian side also thanked Depay for his contribution during his two-year spell. He made 79 appearances and scored 20 goals, helping Corinthians win the Copa do Brasil in 2025 and the Supercopa do Brasil in 2026.

Corinthians said its president, Osmar Stabile, would hold a press conference in the coming days to explain the decision in greater detail.

The dispute now leaves Depay and Corinthians facing a potentially contentious end to their relationship, with the forward indicating that he intends to pursue the matter further to protect his interests.

Gilbert Ekugbe

Gilbert Ekugbe is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over a decade of experience reporting on business and economic affairs. He covers markets, corporate developments, finance, and Nigeria’s broader economic landscape. His reporting is informed by extensive newsroom experience and a strong commitment to accuracy and responsible journalism, helping readers understand complex business issues.

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