Depay takes pay cut to stay at Corinthians

Memphis Depay will continue his career at Corinthians after agreeing to a substantial pay cut, securing a new contract with the Brazilian club until 2028. This development follows a period of tension between the player and the club regarding his contract renewal.

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Everything’s fine but it was hard work. Obviously, you can’t get an international star done very quickly – it was a lengthy process but everything worked out.

Just last week, the former Manchester United forward had publicly criticized Corinthians, accusing them of "unacceptable behaviour" after the club rescinded a previously agreed-upon two-year contract extension. The situation appeared to be heading towards Depay's departure from the Sao Paulo-based team.

However, Corinthians president Osmar Stabile confirmed that Depay significantly reduced his financial demands during a personal meeting, enabling the club to finalize a new deal. Stabile stated that while it was challenging to retain an international star, the agreement was ultimately reached, prioritizing the club's financial interests. Depay's willingness to adjust his terms reflects his desire to stay with Corinthians.

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We had a personal meeting and he managed to reduce numbers that his team couldn’t achieve. We did what was best for Corinthians, especially in financial terms.

Depay, who has scored 20 goals in 79 appearances and helped Corinthians win the Copa do Brasil in 2025 and the Supercopa do Brasil this year, had faced uncertainty due to the club's financial concerns. According to ESPN Brasil, Depay agreed to waive approximately R$21 million (£2.9 million) from the R$75 million (£10.6 million) owed to him. The remaining R$54 million (£7.6 million) will be paid in four installments starting in January 2027. Stabile expressed confidence that the club can afford the new contract under these revised terms.

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He reduced it significantly. I don’t want to discuss numbers but he made a considerable reduction because of the circumstances, because of his desire to stay, and because Corinthians needed to find a way to pay. I believe we can afford this contract.