Memphis Depay has accused Corinthians of breaking an agreement to extend his contract after the Brazilian club decided against renewing his deal.
The Netherlands forward joined Corinthians on a two-year contract in 2024. He has made 79 appearances for the club and scored 20 goals.
Depay also helped Corinthians win the Copa do Brasil in 2025 and the Supercopa do Brasil this year.
The 32-year-old said Corinthians had already agreed to extend his contract. He claims the club then backed out of that agreement.
“This renewal was explicitly agreed upon by the president as well as the sporting, legal and financial department,” Depay wrote on social media on Tuesday. “Some people decided however to breach this engagement.”
Depay said he did not want the dispute. However, he believes he must now protect his interests.
“I didn’t want this situation and always respected the club throughout the process,” he said. “But now I am forced to react strongly in order to preserve my interests.”
The former Manchester United and Barcelona forward also warned that he would take further action.
“In the upcoming days I will speak publicly,” Depay said. “Rest assured that I will not leave this unacceptable behaviour unsanctioned.”
Corinthians did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The Brazilian club had already explained its decision. Corinthians said financial concerns prevented it from taking on another major commitment.
“It became clear that taking on a new commitment of this magnitude would not be compatible with the financial balance we need to preserve to ensure the institution’s sustainability,” the club said.
Corinthians currently sit seventh in Brazil’s Serie A. The club also said the decision was difficult but necessary.
“We recognise that this was a difficult decision,” Corinthians said. “But it was undoubtedly necessary for the future of Corinthians.”
Depay joined Corinthians after spells with Manchester United, Lyon, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. He has since become an important figure at the Brazilian club.
His contract dispute now threatens to overshadow his departure.
Corinthians president Osmar Stabile will hold a press conference to explain the club’s decision. Depay has also promised to speak publicly in the coming days.
