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Corinthians attacker Zakaria Labyad has openly appealed to the club’s management to finalise a contract extension for star teammate Memphis Depay. After Depay’s decisive equaliser in the Copa Libertadores, the Moroccan midfielder praised the Netherlands international’s outstanding influence in South American football and underlined that keeping him is essential for Corinthians’ continued growth.

Labyad calls for Depay’s contract extension

The Moroccan playmaker secured a valuable away draw against Penarol in Montevideo before directing his focus toward the club’s administrative decisions in Sao Paulo. His celebration, mirroring Depay’s well-known fingers-in-ears gesture, symbolised his admiration for the Dutchman. Speaking after the match, Labyad used his media appearance to press the club’s leadership for action on Depay’s expiring contract. With the former Barcelona forward’s current high-value deal due to expire in just a few months, the entire squad has voiced united support for his retention.

Explanation behind Labyad’s celebration

Discussing his tribute and reflecting on the cultural as well as competitive transformation Depay has inspired since his arrival in Brazil, Labyad explained the team’s shared sentiment. In an interview with ESPN, the Moroccan said: “Yes, of course [the celebration was a tribute to Memphis].”

He continued: “It’s very important for the club to take the next step to ensure he stays. Everyone has seen what he’s done over the past two years — for the team, for the club — winning three trophies and helping us avoid relegation. He’s done a tremendous job, and for us players, we all want him to continue at Corinthians.”

Depay’s future uncertain

Depay’s current contract is set to expire at the end of July, prompting urgent discussions between the club’s executives and three external commercial partners to secure funding for a lucrative new deal.

His season has been significantly affected by injuries, having been sidelined since late March during a challenging recovery phase. A minor muscle strain in his left leg during training on Monday temporarily interrupted his return, though the medical team considers this a normal setback for a top-level player resuming action after an extended layoff.

Upcoming fixtures define season’s direction

Corinthians now face a demanding week with three matches in quick succession, beginning with a tough Brasileirao home clash against Atletico-MG on Sunday, May 24. They will then confront Platense in a decisive Copa Libertadores group stage tie before travelling to meet Gremio on May 30. While club officials work to finalise the details of Depay’s multi-million-pound extension, the Dutch forward remains focused on completing his rehabilitation to strengthen the squad’s domestic campaign.