Memphis Depay Risks Ban After Using Phone On Corinthians Bench

Corinthians forward Memphis Depay is facing a possible suspension of up to six matches after being caught on camera using a mobile phone while seated on the substitutes’ bench during a Brazilian top-flight encounter.

According to Ireporter Online, the incident occurred during Corinthians’ 1-1 draw against Flamengo on Sunday, when television footage showed the former Manchester United attacker briefly using his phone before a member of the coaching staff intervened and appeared to instruct him to stop, prompting the player to put the device away.

The matter has since been taken up by Brazil’s sports authorities, with the Superior Court of Sports Justice charging the Dutch international under Article 258 of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice, which addresses actions considered inconsistent with sporting ethics. The complaint reportedly argued that such behaviour undermines discipline and could encourage improper communication, while also complicating enforcement of regulations by match officials.

If found guilty, the 32-year-old could face a suspension ranging from one to six matches. Depay had earlier been substituted in the 22nd minute due to a reported thigh injury and later took to social media to clarify the situation, stating that his phone use was solely to communicate with medical personnel in the Netherlands. He added that he had remained on the bench to support his teammates despite his injury and expressed disappointment over the result.

The forward has also been dealing with a knee issue, raising doubts over his involvement with the Dutch national team in upcoming friendlies, with head coach Ronald Koeman suggesting his participation remains uncertain.

Corinthians currently occupy 11th position in the league standings after eight matches, trailing Flamengo by four points. In the fixture, Lucas Paquetá gave Flamengo the lead before Yuri Alberto restored parity for Corinthians, who were unable to capitalize further despite playing against ten men in the second half.

Depay joined Corinthians in September 2024 from Atletico Madrid, having previously featured for Olympique Lyonnais and FC Barcelona. Since his arrival, he has recorded 20 goals and 15 assists in 77 appearances for the Brazilian side.