Dutch forward Memphis Depay continues to add trophies to his career, this time in South America. In an intense final, the striker played a key role in SC Corinthians' victory, securing the Campeonato Paulista title after defeating Palmeiras. In addition to the sporting achievement, the former FC Barcelona and Atlético de Madrid player received a significant financial bonus for the championship win.

Corinthians triumphs in a thrilling final

The team led by António Oliveira managed to overcome its arch-rival in a two-legged series full of excitement. In the first match, Timão secured a narrow 1-0 victory away from home, thanks to a goal from Yuri Alberto, who capitalized on his team’s only clear opportunity.

The second leg turned into a tactical and emotional battle. Palmeiras pushed hard for an equalizer on aggregate, and Corinthians had to endure the final stretch of the match with a man down after Félix Torres was sent off. However, the black-and-white squad showed resilience and held on for a goalless draw, clinching its first Paulista title since 2019.

One of the match’s most tense moments involved Memphis Depay, who was at the center of a scuffle that resulted in the expulsions of José Andrés Martínez and Marcelo Lomba. The altercation extended the game by 16 minutes of added time before the celebrations could begin.

A million-euro reward for Depay

Beyond the joy of lifting his first trophy with Corinthians, Memphis Depay also received a substantial financial reward. According to Globo Esporte, the forward is set to earn approximately €760,000 for winning the Paulista title, an amount nearly matching the total prize awarded to the club, valued at €809,000.

Since arriving in Brazil last September, the Dutch striker has already accumulated over €1.27 million in bonuses, including payments for reaching specific match milestones with the team. With a promising start to his South American adventure, Depay now sets his sights on bigger goals, such as the Brasileirão title, which Corinthians hasn’t won since 2017.

Paul Pogba to Brazilian football?

Memphis Depay’s success in Brazil has sparked speculation about other European players potentially making a move to South America. One of the names being discussed is Paul Pogba, who is currently facing suspension in European football due to off-field issues.

Several media outlets have linked the French midfielder to a possible transfer to a Brazilian club, with SC Corinthians emerging as a potential destination. The São Paulo-based team is looking to strengthen its squad with international stars, and the arrival of a player of Pogba’s caliber could be a game-changing move both in terms of media attention and sporting performance.

With the Brasileirão and Copa Libertadores on the horizon, Corinthians is making bold moves in the transfer market, and the arrival of high-profile names like Depay—and possibly Pogba—could mark the beginning of a new era for the club.