Corinthians forward Memphis Depay is facing a potential suspension of up to six matches after he was filmed using his mobile phone while on the substitutes' bench during a Brazilian Serie A fixture. The incident occurred during Corinthians' 1-1 draw against Flamengo on Sunday, with television cameras capturing the 32-year-old former Manchester United player using his device.
Disciplinary Charges Filed
Depay has been formally reported to Brazil's Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) under Article 258 of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice. The charge alleges that his conduct "violates the athlete's duties of loyalty and discipline" and could influence other players to normalize electronic device use on the bench.
The complaint, accessed by Brazilian outlet UOL, states: "The conduct of a high-profile athlete has a strong capacity to influence behavior, potentially normalizing the use of electronic devices on the bench, which would weaken disciplinary control, create opportunities for improper communication, and generate additional difficulties for referees and organizers in enforcing the rules."
Depay's Explanation and Injury Context
Depay had been substituted in the 22nd minute of the match due to a reported thigh injury. Following the game, he took to social media platform X to explain his actions, claiming he was communicating with Netherlands national team medical staff about his injury status ahead of international duty.
"Just to clarify, my moment with the phone was to communicate with the medical staff in the Netherlands at that moment," Depay wrote. "I came outside to show support to my team while I could've stayed inside the dressing room with the injury. I'm upset with the result of the game as well. We keep working for better days."
National Team Implications
The Netherlands' all-time leading scorer had already been managing a knee injury but was still selected for upcoming friendlies against Norway and Ecuador. Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman expressed pessimism about Depay's availability, stating: "He might still join us, but it doesn't look good. We might bring him in later, perhaps for the second match. But if that's not feasible, then there's no need."
Match Details and Club Context
During Sunday's match, former West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta gave Flamengo an early lead before Corinthians equalized through Yuri Alberto. Despite Flamengo being reduced to ten men in the second half, Corinthians couldn't find a winning goal.
The result leaves Corinthians languishing in 11th position after eight matches, with rivals Flamengo sitting four points ahead in fourth place. Depay joined Corinthians in September 2024 from Atletico Madrid, having previously played for Manchester United, Lyon, and Barcelona. Since his move to Brazil, he has registered 20 goals and 15 assists in 77 appearances across all competitions.
The disciplinary case now moves to the STJD, where Depay faces a suspension ranging from one to six matches if found guilty of violating sports ethics regulations. The outcome could significantly impact both his club and international commitments in the coming weeks.
