Memphis Depay: Rapper, Philanthropist, Muse, and Now the Netherlands’ Record Goalscorer
There was a moment of flair, followed quickly by chaos.
As Corinthians were on the verge of victory in the Paulista A1 final against Palmeiras, Memphis Depay stood still with both feet on the ball, a daring bit of showboating that sparked an all-out brawl. The incident led to one player from each side being sent off, and even drew criticism from Brazil’s football federation, which called the act “provocative and disrespectful,” recommending a yellow card for such behavior.
But Depay, along with Brazilian legend Neymar, was quick to defend himself.
“I really went to Brazil to experience jogo bonito, the beautiful game,” Depay said. “There is so much talent and joy here. The passion and freedom of expression shouldn’t be limited.”
Neymar agreed, lamenting that “football is getting more and more boring.”
More Than a Footballer
Depay is far from ordinary. A rapper, philanthropist, and style icon, the 31-year-old forward — with his trademark sweatband and a lion tattooed across his back — has carved a unique path in football.
From a PSV Eindhoven prodigy to a Manchester United outcast, he rebuilt himself using data analytics to revive his career. His time at Lyon reignited his spark, followed by silverware in Spain and, now, cult hero status in Brazil.
Depay has also etched his name into Dutch football history as the Netherlands’ all-time top scorer, with 52 goals, surpassing legends like Van Persie, Kluivert, and Robben.
“I travelled to Brazil specifically to see if he could still add value to our national team,” said Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman. “You don’t do that for just anyone.”
A Star in Brazil
In a country known for exporting talent, Depay made headlines by doing the opposite — moving to Brazil. His arrival at Corinthians came with controversy over his high wages and bonus payments, but his impact on the field was undeniable.
Journalist Bruno Cassucci explained:
“The fans love him, but there’s debate about his cost because the club is struggling financially.”
Depay’s success speaks for itself, seven goals in 11 games last season helped Corinthians climb from 18th to 7th, securing Copa Libertadores qualification and ending a six-year title drought by winning the Paulista Championship.
Off the pitch, he’s embraced Brazilian culture. Corinthians’ executive Fabinho Soldado noted that Depay’s big personality has “blended perfectly” with the local lifestyle.
Calling Brazil the “mecca of football,” Depay said he admired the country’s energy:
“People here are more fascinated about life. It’s not just about football.”
The Musician and Philanthropist
Depay’s artistic side has flourished in Brazil. Since releasing his first music in 2017, he’s now collaborated with funk artist MC Hariel on an album titled “Falando com as Favelas” (“Talking to the Favelas”). One track is dedicated to Corinthians supporters.
He’s also spent time visiting São Paulo’s favelas:
“If I spend just one hour with people and it inspires them, that’s enough. I want to help them,” Depay said.
The Journey So Far
Depay first rose to global attention at the 2014 World Cup, where his goals helped the Netherlands finish third. Despite interest from PSG and Liverpool, he stayed at PSV to win the Eredivisie before joining Manchester United under Louis van Gaal.
Former teammate Wayne Rooney recalls:
“He was flashy, sure, but talented and hardworking. I’m pleased for him, he’s always had an eye for goal and he’s earned that Netherlands record.”
After struggling under José Mourinho, Depay took a bold, data-driven approach to his next move. Dutch journalist Arthur Renard revealed that he worked with SciSports, a data company, to find the perfect club. The analysis led him to Lyon, where he rediscovered his best form, scoring 76 goals in 178 games and launching a charity foundation for deaf and blind children.
Later, Koeman brought him to Barcelona, and although he shone early with 12 goals in his first La Liga season, he eventually moved to Atlético Madrid before joining Corinthians in 2024.
Inspiration for the Oranje
Depay’s influence extends to his national team image. Designer Arsenio Lopez, who created the Netherlands’ 2022 World Cup kit, said Depay’s lion tattoo and confidence inspired the design’s “power and regalness.”
At that World Cup, Depay scored in the Netherlands’ win over the USA before their quarterfinal exit to Argentina. He also played every match at Euro 2024, only missing the semi-final defeat to England due to injury.
Despite fierce competition from legends like Van Persie and Van Nistelrooy, Depay’s longevity and consistency make him the Netherlands’ most prolific scorer ever.
“Fans appreciate him now,” says Renard. “He’s proven his worth when there aren’t many top strikers around.”
Koeman shares a close bond with him:
“We’ve known each other a long time. Sometimes you have a connection with a player that’s just a little stronger.”
From Showboater to Legend
Memphis Depay’s story is one of reinvention, creativity, and resilience. Whether rapping in São Paulo, mentoring young players, or scoring for the Netherlands, he continues to prove that he’s more than just a footballer, he’s an artist who refuses to be defined by convention.