Corinthians coach expressed great frustration with the negotiation's outcome and revealed the locker room's reaction to the news.
Corinthians faced Rosario Central on Thursday night (8/13) in a clash for the Copa Libertadores Round of 16. The match, which ended in a goalless 0-0 draw, left the scenario open for the return leg, but also marked coach Fernando Diniz's press conference with a striking revelation.
In his post-match statements, Diniz did not hide his deep disappointment with the failed signing of Dutch forward Memphis Depay. The coach expressed a long-held desire to work with the player and detailed his frustration at seeing the negotiation fall through due to “small details.”
Beyond his own sadness, the Corinthians manager addressed how the news of Depay's departure impacted the squad. Despite the feeling of loss, the Alvinegro team managed to channel the frustration, transforming it into motivation and dedication on the field, as highlighted by Diniz.
Frustration with Memphis's negotiation outcome
During the press conference, Fernando Diniz was directly questioned about the outcome of the negotiation with Memphis Depay, and his response showed genuine dejection. “I was very sad about the outcome. I really wanted to work with him,” declared the Timão coach.
Diniz explained that initial contacts with the player were promising, indicating a mutual understanding of the partnership's potential. “My contacts, from the very first, were of high quality, with the understanding that we could do something very good together,” he added. Expectations were high, but the outcome was not as anticipated.
The signing, according to Diniz, was practically sealed. “For us, it was closed, a matter of small details,” stated the coach, expressing what he considered “a shame” for him, for Corinthians, and especially for the Alvinegro fans, who were awaiting the arrival of a significant name.
Corinthians squad's reaction to Memphis news
The impact of the news regarding Memphis Depay's failed signing was not limited to the coaching staff. Fernando Diniz detailed that the feeling of frustration was widely shared within the Corinthians locker room, affecting players and directors who had already established a close relationship with the forward.
“I think everyone who was here felt it. From Marcelo Paz, who is our director, to Julio Manso and all the players,” Diniz said. He explained that, beyond a possible contribution to titles, Memphis had built strong bonds with the group, which intensified the collective disappointment.
Extra motivation for Corinthians' upcoming challenges
Despite the initial sadness, Diniz made a point of highlighting the Corinthians squad's ability to overcome challenges. According to him, the players managed to transform frustration into fuel for even more dedicated performances on the field, demonstrating exemplary professionalism.
“The players were once again exceptional, as they have been with me. Dedication and selflessness. They managed to turn a sad event into motivation for greater commitment,” praised the coach, highlighting the group's resilience. Corinthians faces a new challenge on Sunday (8/16) when they host Cruzeiro at Neo Química Arena, at 7:30 PM, for the 23rd round of the Brazilian Championship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Memphis Depay and why did Corinthians want to sign him?
Memphis Depay is an internationally renowned Dutch forward. Corinthians had great interest in signing him to strengthen the squad, with coach Fernando Diniz expressing a desire to work with him and the belief that they would form “something very good together.”
What was the result of the match between Corinthians and Rosario Central?
Corinthians and Rosario Central drew 0-0 on Thursday night (8/13) in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores Round of 16.
When is Corinthians' next match?
Corinthians' next match will be on Sunday, August 16, against Cruzeiro. The match will take place at Neo Química Arena, at 7:30 PM, for the Brazilian Championship.
How did Fernando Diniz react to Memphis Depay's failed signing?
Fernando Diniz deeply regretted the outcome of the Memphis Depay negotiation, stating he was “very sad and disappointed.” He had high hopes of working with the forward and revealed that, for Corinthians, the signing was practically closed, lacking only “small details.”