Zakaria Labyad has publicly urged Corinthians to extend Memphis Depay's contract after the Dutch forward's transformative impact on the Brazilian club. The Moroccan midfielder, who scored a vital equaliser against Penarol in the Copa Libertadores, celebrated by mimicking Depay's signature fingers-in-ears gesture—a clear show of solidarity with his teammate.
Depay's current deal expires at the end of July, leaving the club in a race against time to negotiate renewal terms. Speaking to ESPN, Labyad emphasised the collective desire across the dressing room to keep the former Barcelona attacker in South America. "It's very important for the club to take the next step so that he stays with the club," Labyad said, reflecting on Depay's remarkable two-year tenure.
A Transformative Force in Brazil
Since arriving at Arena Corinthians, Depay has become instrumental to the club's recent success. The forward has won three trophies with Corinthians while also playing a crucial role in helping the team avoid relegation—a testament to his commitment beyond simple goal-scoring statistics. His physical and mental presence has reshaped the squad's competitive culture, a point Labyad underscored in his public endorsement.
The recovery process has proven demanding, however. Depay sustained a muscular strain in his left leg during training this week, temporarily halting his return from injury that sidelined him since late March. Medical staff view the setback as a minor, routine adjustment for an athlete rebuilding match fitness after prolonged absence rather than a serious concern.
Critical Weeks Ahead
Corinthians face an intensive fixture schedule over the coming days. The squad must navigate a demanding Brasileirao clash against Atletico-MG on May 24, followed by a decisive Copa Libertadores group stage match against Platense and then a trip to face Gremio on May 30. Club directors are simultaneously managing contract negotiations with multiple commercial partners to fund Depay's renewal, adding administrative complexity to an already pressured schedule.
With Depay gradually returning to full fitness, Corinthians will look to harness his experience during this crucial period of domestic and continental competition.
