Seedorf asks for patience with Depay, Corinthians fight relegation
Clarence Seedorf, former midfielder of the Netherlands, said in a Google interview that patience is needed with Memphis Depay at the Brazilian club Corinthians, where the 32‑year‑old striker has scored only one competitive goal this season and is struggling with fitness and form.
The coach of the fallen Brazilian top club sees that Memphis is struggling with his fitness and form, which leads him to want the expectations to be lowered a bit. According to Seedorf, the all‑time top scorer of the Netherlands indeed needs time.
Corinthians is in relegation trouble and Memphis has been the scapegoat this season, as the 32‑year‑old forward has so far scored only one goal in the league. In addition, he is dealing with injuries and a contract saga that complicate the situation.
“Memphis is a human being. He also goes through periods where he has less confidence, just like every player I have met in the world,” says Seedorf. Seedorf adds that when a player cannot perform as he wishes, it often relates to a lack of confidence.
“The expectations people have of him are based on what he showed last year. But at this moment he is not in the same circumstances as last year. He is working to become fully fit and in good shape again. We will have to be patient and have realistic expectations. Memphis needs time,” said Seedorf. Seedorf came to explain his point of view on behalf of his compatriot.
Corinthians in relegation drift
Seedorf's task is to keep Corinthians from relegation; with four matches left, the club is still one point above the relegation line. “It is clear that we are dealing with a certain reality. But do we want to waste time on things we cannot control, or do we invest our energy in what we do have control over?” he asks.
“That does not mean we can ignore the financial situation. The group has adhered to that agreement. The way the players train and how much they love to play football is the best way to express themselves about the things that are not functioning well. The group's focus has always been good,” emphasizes Seedorf.