Former Manchester United forward Memphis Depay could face a ban after being accused of making an 'offensive' gesture during Corinthians' Copa Libertadores quarter-final first leg against Estudiantes.
The Dutchman was in action for the Brazilian side, who trailed 1-0 at half-time after Alex Castro scored in the fourth minute. Corinthians drew level in the 49th minute through Kaio Cesar, and during the celebrations Depay appeared to put his middle finger up towards the home fans.
Complaint filed with CONMEBOL
The crowd responded with boos and jeers. Depay also claimed to the referee that an object had been hurled in his direction, but it was his gesture that prompted Estudiantes to lodge a formal complaint.
Following the match, the club confirmed they had "filed a complaint with the CONMEBOL disciplinary unit regarding the offensive gestures made by opposing player Memphis Depay, which were undeniably directed towards our stands."
Corinthians cite regulation over second leg
The second leg of the quarter-final is scheduled for next week. In response, Corinthians highlighted a regulation that should permit their forward to feature in the fixture.
"The deadline for submitting a defence, set by CONMEBOL, is September 17, one day after the Copa Libertadores quarter-final second leg," they stated. "Therefore, any potential sanction would only be applied after the ruling, which will take place following the presentation of the defence. Respecting the deadline, Corinthians will present this defence to avoid any type of sanction against Memphis Depay."
While the regulations suggest Depay is likely to feature in the second leg, he could still face a suspension for future fixtures if found guilty.
Depay's United career and contract dispute
The 32-year-old spent two and a half years at United, making 53 appearances, netting seven goals and chipping in with five assists.
His future was shrouded in doubt this summer after the player publicly hit out at Corinthians for failing to offer him a contract extension. "Very disappointed to read that Corinthians decided not to honour our agreement in place to extend my contract for two more years," he wrote on social media.
"This renewal was explicitly agreed upon by the president as well as the sporting, legal and financial department. Some people decided however to breach this engagement. 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. In the upcoming days I will speak publicly but rest assured that I will not leave this unacceptable behaviour unsanctioned."
Depay ultimately put pen to paper on a fresh deal with the club, albeit after agreeing to take a considerable reduction in wages.
