Dutch forward Memphis Depay has found himself at the centre of a new off-field scandal after Brazilian influencer Lary Simoes accused the Corinthians striker of cutting off all communication with her following news that she was pregnant.
The revelation was first reported by Brazilian entertainment journalist Fabia Oliveira through Metropoles, one of Brazil’s most reputable showbiz outlets. According to the report, Depay and Lary had been romantically involved since February 2025, but their relationship allegedly fell apart after she informed him of her pregnancy.
Sources close to the influencer told Metropoles that she broke the news to the former Barcelona and Lyon star about a month ago, expecting support and dialogue. However, Lary claims that Depay’s reaction was cold and dismissive, and that he has since avoided any communication or responsibility.
To back her story, Lary provided Metropoles with a series of photographs documenting their relationship. Among them were pictures taken inside Depay’s residence and another of her wearing a Corinthians jersey with his name printed on the back — images she said were taken during happier times in their relationship. She also shared a photograph of a positive pregnancy test, claiming it as evidence of her current situation.
“So far, he hasn’t even found a lawyer who can address any problems or doubts. Nothing!” Lary lamented in her interview with Metropoles, expressing disappointment over the footballer’s lack of response or acknowledgment.
The allegations have quickly made headlines in Brazil, sparking widespread reactions on social media. Supporters of the influencer have voiced outrage at Depay’s alleged behaviour, accusing him of abandoning his moral responsibility. Others have urged caution, noting that the football star has yet to issue an official statement addressing the claims.
Depay, who joined Brazilian club Corinthians earlier this year, has remained silent amid the growing storm. The Dutch international, known for his charismatic personality and creative flair both on and off the pitch, has often drawn media attention for his lifestyle and outspoken nature. However, this latest controversy threatens to overshadow his on-field contributions to his new team.
The 31-year-old forward, who has previously represented clubs such as Manchester United, Olympique Lyonnais, and FC Barcelona, made headlines in January 2025 when he signed for Corinthians in a high-profile move intended to revive his career in South America. While his arrival was celebrated by fans eager to see European star power in the Brazilian league, his time at the club has not been without turbulence.
Just weeks before this latest controversy, Depay faced public backlash for showing online support for the son of a notorious Brazilian gang leader — an action that many fans and commentators viewed as insensitive and poorly timed. The Corinthians management reportedly cautioned him at the time, urging him to maintain focus on football and avoid unnecessary distractions.
Now, with these new allegations surfacing, the pressure is mounting once again. Club officials have yet to comment publicly on the situation, but sources close to the team told Africa Live News that they are “monitoring developments carefully” and could seek clarification from the player if the controversy escalates.
For Depay, the allegations come at a critical point in his career. After struggling with injuries and inconsistency in Europe, his move to Brazil was seen as an opportunity for a fresh start — both professionally and personally. He had spoken openly about wanting to “find joy in football again” and “connect with new cultures,” expressing optimism about life in South America.
However, the Brazilian media have shown no hesitation in keeping him under scrutiny, particularly as he continues to adapt to the intense spotlight of São Paulo’s football scene.
Lary Simoes, meanwhile, has gained sympathy from many online users, with thousands of comments flooding her social media posts since the story broke. Some fans have commended her courage for coming forward, while others have criticised the decision to go public with a private matter.
Entertainment and sports analysts in Brazil say this episode highlights how foreign players often struggle with the cultural and media pressures that come with playing in the country. “Brazilian football is not just about performance on the field — it’s about managing fame, relationships, and a very invasive media culture,” noted Brazilian columnist Renato Silveira. “Depay is learning that reality the hard way.”
Despite the ongoing media frenzy, Lary insists that her intention was not to tarnish Depay’s image but to seek accountability and honesty. “I just wanted him to talk, to show some responsibility,” she told Metropoles. “This is not about fame. It’s about respect.”
As of now, Memphis Depay has neither confirmed nor denied the allegations. His social media accounts remain active, but he has not addressed the issue publicly. Fans have been quick to flood his recent posts with comments demanding answers, while others continue to show support, insisting that the footballer deserves a chance to share his side of the story.
If the claims are proven true, this incident could damage Depay’s reputation at Corinthians and beyond, particularly given the moral expectations surrounding foreign professionals in Brazil’s top flight. On the other hand, if further details reveal inconsistencies in the influencer’s story, it could highlight the growing challenges athletes face in managing their private lives under constant public scrutiny.
For now, the story continues to unfold, with both supporters and critics eagerly awaiting an official response from the Dutch-Ghanaian star.
Regardless of how it ends, this latest controversy marks another chapter in Memphis Depay’s complex and often dramatic career — one that blends moments of brilliance on the pitch with personal turbulence off it. As Corinthians prepare for their next league fixture, the question remains whether their star striker can regain focus and let his football speak louder than the headlines once again.
Contact: editor@africalivenews.com
— Africa Live News
