Corinthians beat Grêmio this Sunday (08/12), 3-0, thanks to a great goal from Memphis Depay. The Dutchman reached seven goals and four assists for Timão.
From a candidate for relegation to a place in the Pre-Libertadores, Corinthians saw their performance improve after the arrival of Memphis in September.
Timão closed the Brasileirão in seventh place, with 56 points.
MORE: What’s the beef between Memphis Depay and Juninho Pernambucano?
How was Memphis’ bicycle goal?
Corinthians were winning 2-0, at Arena do Grêmio, and continued to attack. The play starts with Alex Santana, who invaded the area and finished, but Caíque saved.
In the end, Memphis projected his body and performed a great feat, scoring a great goal and being celebrated by teammates and Corinthians fans present in Porto Alegre.
Check bid:
MORE: Memphis’ request brings Neymar closer to Corinthians?
Why did Memphis Depay choose Corinthians?
When asked why he chose Corinthians, Memphis explained his origins and highlighted that he “felt the energy” that the black and white club gave him.
– Why did I cross the world to play football in a country about which we, in Europe, don’t know much about the competitions? I grew up in the Netherlands, I have African roots, I know competitions in Europe. Now, at 30 years old, I asked myself what I can do to become happier. I stay close to my thoughts and feelings. I believe that everything in my life has a purpose. The reason I’m here, honestly, is for the Corinthians club. They suggested I come, and the energy I felt, through the president, Fabinho, the fans, everyone behind all of this, I had never experienced before. My heart didn’t know that – Memphis highlighted.
During his speech, the Dutchman said that “it’s not just about football”. For him, it’s “a purpose.”
– The reason I’m here is not just football. I’ve played against these teams, and it’s always very difficult. I think many will follow to experience this journey as a player. At the moment, I believe it is a decision. It goes beyond my understanding. I can’t explain. I move with purpose, and that is bigger than my change. My Brazilian friends are happy. God has a purpose, let’s see how that works – he added.
In fact, big names in Brazilian football helped guide Memphis. Among them, Neymar. The striker revealed a conversation he had with the player about the team and Brazilian culture.
– I spoke to some people, like Neymar and other Brazilians. I asked about the culture, the club, the city. I spoke to my boss. I look at myself and ask, “What do I feel?” One thing that is inside me is a high energy, we have to follow that voice. When I had that feeling, I prayed about it and took that step. It was a very long summer after the European Championship. I was at peace, I felt at peace. I was feeling good and I made the decision – he concluded.
What is Corinthians’ standings?
Check below how Corinthians is doing in each competition.
- Brazilian Championship: seventh place
- Copa do Brasil: eliminated in the semi-finals
- Copa Sudamericana: eliminated in the semi-finals
