Jesse Lingard makes historic move to Corinthians
Jesse Lingard has completed a groundbreaking transfer to Corinthians, making history as the first English footballer to compete in Brazil’s top division, reports BritPanorama.
The 33-year-old attacking midfielder has signed a deal with the São Paulo-based club that runs until the conclusion of 2026. His contract includes an automatic extension clause, potentially keeping him at the Brazilian Serie A outfit for an additional season.
Lingard, who was without a club since December following his time with South Korean side FC Seoul, embarks on this new venture after a tumultuous period marked by his fall from favour at Manchester United and subsequent stints at West Ham and Nottingham Forest.
During his successful loan with West Ham in the 2020/21 campaign, he scored nine goals and provided five assists in just 16 appearances. However, his fortunes dwindled upon returning to United, leading to disappointment at Nottingham Forest and ultimately a search for a fresh challenge abroad.
Now, Brazil represents another significant cultural transition for Lingard, who has played across three continents since leaving Old Trafford. His arrival at Corinthians offers him the opportunity to reinvent himself in a football environment that differs markedly from the Premier League.
Lingard will not face this new challenge alone; he reunites with Dutch forward Memphis Depay, a former Manchester United teammate, who is already part of the Corinthians squad. Their shared history adds an intriguing layer to Lingard’s Brazilian chapter.
Donning the number 77 shirt, Lingard’s first match will be against Coritiba on Thursday night, hoping to contribute to Corinthians’ success while carving out a new legacy in the process.
As he steps onto the pitch in Brazil, it serves as a reminder of how careers can veer into unexpected territories, reflecting the unpredictable nature of football’s global landscape.
