Jesse Lingard set to join Corinthians in Brazil
Jesse Lingard has reached an agreement to join Corinthians, a move that will see him become the first Englishman ever to feature in Brazil’s top division, reports BritPanorama.
The 33-year-old former Manchester United midfielder arrived in Brazil on Sunday morning ahead of completing his medical with the São Paulo-based outfit. Lingard will sign a twelve-month contract, which includes the option for a further year’s extension.
The England international, who has earned 32 caps for his country, made his decision despite receiving approaches from clubs in both Major League Soccer and Spain, while also turning down newly-promoted Brazilian side Remo. His move to South America follows three months after Lingard terminated his contract with FC Seoul, leaving him without a club since December.
During his less than two-year stint in the K-League, Lingard enjoyed a revival, scoring 19 goals and providing ten assists across 67 matches. His period in South Korea helped rejuvenate his career after a challenging 12-month tenure at Nottingham Forest.
Many anticipated Lingard would return to England after leaving Seoul, with family considerations at the forefront of his decision-making. However, no transfer materialised during the January window despite interest from Championship sides Middlesbrough, Coventry City, and Ipswich Town.
At Corinthians, he will reunite with Memphis Depay, his former teammate from their shared time at Manchester United. Initially facing interest from MLS and Spanish clubs, Lingard ultimately chose Brazil for this chapter in his career.
Lingard’s former manager at FC Seoul, Kim Ki-dong, expressed surprise at the midfielder’s departure without a definitive next step: “I asked Lingard if he had a club to go to before leaving, but he said there was no set destination. It’s quite strange,” he remarked.
This signing marks an intriguing development in Lingard’s career, showcasing his willingness to embrace new challenges abroad while highlighting the global reach of football. As the former England international aims to make an impact in a new league, fans will keenly watch how he adapts to the vibrant footballing culture of Brazil.
