Former Manchester United star Memphis Depay is currently plying his trade with Brazilian side Corinthians and enjoyed a rollercoaster evening on Thursday after leading the club to a trophy
Comments
Sport
Memphis Depay
Depay's showboating did not fo down particularly well
Memphis Depay triggered a mass brawl as he helped nine-man Corinthians end their six-year trophy drought in a game that saw three red cards. The former Manchester United star signed for the Brazilian side last September having left Atletico Madrid the following season.
He put pen to paper on a two-year deal and enjoyed a positive first campaign with seven goals in 14 appearances in all competitions. But Depay has had a dramatic few weeks in 2025.
The Dutch striker has scored just two goals in 16 games this calendar year but has still managed to lead Corinthians to the Campeonato Paulista title against fierce rivals Palmeiras on Thursday evening. The two sides ended up drawing 0-0, handing Corinthians a 1-0 aggregate success.
But Depay’s actions late in the game infuriated a host of players. As Corinthians attempted to see the game out, he had the ball near the corner flag and then proceeded to stand on it with both feet.
READ MORE: Man Utd desperately bid to raise £310m this summer by selling eight playersREAD MORE: Man Utd weigh up paying MORE than top target's release clause after Ruben Amorim steps in
And that triggered a furious reaction from both sides as players piled in, while the officials attempted to calm the tensions. It was not the only angry clash during the game with three red cards shown.
Felix Torres was sent off with 15 minutes to go, while Jose Martinez and Marcelo Lomba were also dismissed deep into stoppage time. Despite their celebrations, Corinthians and Depay will now have to refocus for their first league fixture of the campaign on Monday evening against Bahia.
Depay’s showboating comes just weeks after he was sent a message by former Barcelona teammate Neymar. The latter had copied his celebration after scoring an ‘Olimpico’ goal direct from a corner and took to Instagram shortly after. He wrote: "FRIENDSHIP does exist between RIVALS! Memphis Depay, love u bro!"
Depay
Depay's actions triggered a mass brawl between the two sides
Who is Man United's biggest flop ever? Share your thoughts in the comments below
Depay had previously expressed his desire to play alongside Neymar in Brazil as he looked set to leave former club Al-Hilal. He said: “Ney knows what I discussed with him. That's something between us. But of course it is important for this country. He is a superstar, and has all the qualities to lead Brazil to the World Cup title.
“I would like to play with him at Corinthians. Even though he is actually for Santos. He is an inspiration to many people. I wish him the best, and hope he is and remains happy wherever he goes.”
Neymar eventually sealed a return to his homeland of Brazil but penned a deal with his former club Santos. The 33-year-old has since made seven appearances for Santos, scoring on three occasions.
Join our new MAN UTD WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Manchester United content from Mirror Football. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.