Memphis Depay is the subject of a Conmebol investigation following a gesture towards Estudiantes supporters, De Telegraaf reports.
Images show the Corinthians attacker raising his middle finger in the direction of the Argentine club’s fans after his side equalised during Wednesday’s Copa Libertadores quarter-final.
A turbulent Corinthians chapter
The incident is the latest development in Depay’s eventful spell with the Brazilian club. TPP covered another twist in the former Manchester United forward’s Corinthians saga in August when the club released him over a dispute about money.
Subsequently, Depay extended his contract with Corinthians only days before the latest controversy, placing his immediate playing future on a firmer footing.
Corinthians then faced Estudiantes in the Copa Libertadores quarter-finals on Wednesday. The contest finished 1-1, with Kaio César scoring the Brazilian side’s equaliser.
Estudiantes subsequently lodged a formal complaint with the South American football confederation, calling for the Netherlands international to be sanctioned.
Complaint focuses on 49th-minute celebration
The gesture occurred immediately after Kaio César found the net in the 49th minute. Footage circulating on social media appears to show Depay turning towards the Estudiantes support before raising his middle finger.
DENUNCIA FORMAL ⚽ Estudiantes presentó un reclamo ante Conmebol por los gestos de Memphis Depay hacia sus hinchas en UNO y pidió una sanción para el delantero de Corinthians. #EDLP
🚨 La Comisión Directiva del Pincha elevó una presentación ante la Unidad Disciplinaria del… pic.twitter.com/IXp4Lm6wWP
— 0221 (@0221comar) September 10, 2026
Estudiantes said the action “was unmistakably directed against our supporters”.
The Argentine club added: “Estudiantes once again emphasises the importance of adhering to the motto that states that respect is the foundation.”
However, the potential consequences remain unclear. South American media cited in the Dutch report indicate that there are no specific sanctions prescribed for breaching the relevant guidelines.
Conmebol will therefore have to assess the complaint, the available footage and the surrounding circumstances before deciding what disciplinary action is appropriate.
Depay’s profile beyond Old Trafford
Depay, now 32, showed great early promise at United, but his form and talent seemed to hit a brick wall and he was moved on.
His career then took him to Lyon, Barcelona and Atletico, before he landed in South America, where he represents one of Brazil’s most prominent clubs in Corinthians.
Memphis is the Netherlands men’s national team’s all-time leading goalscorer.
Final Thoughts
- Conmebol has opened an investigation into Depay.
- Estudiantes submitted a formal complaint after the match.
- The gesture followed Corinthians’ 49th-minute equaliser.
- No punishment has yet been determined, but Dutch media expects him to face a lengthy ban.
Featured image by Marcos Brindicci via Getty Images
