S Poddar
Memphis Depay, who denounced Brazil’s football federation for banning a clever move he attempted in a high-profile game, has fueled a fresh debate regarding invention in sport. The Dutch international denounced the Brazilian Football Confederation’s (CBF) recent decision to penalize players for standing on the ball using both feet in games. He signed for Brazilian giants Corinthians in 2024.
The row exploded after Depay executed the move in the dying minutes of the Paulista A1 final match between Corinthians and Palmeiras on March 28. Having just made a fake cross into the box, Depay was standing on the ball on the corner flag with his team a goal ahead and time running out. Although it was a master display of elegance—something Brazilian football is renowned for—it enraged Palmeiras players.
What ensued was utter pandemonium. A frenzied clash erupted between both sets of players, leading to a huge melee on the field. The game was paused for a few minutes as officials examined the situation through VAR. When order was eventually restored, two players were red carded: Palmeiras substitute keeper Marcelo Lomba and Corinthians midfielder Jose Martinez. Altogether, over 18 minutes of stoppage time were added.
Shortly thereafter, the CBF reacted with a statement detailing a new directive. From that day forward, any player who stood on the ball with both feet would be yellow-carded and the other team given an indirect free-kick. The federation termed the act “a provocation to an adversary and a disrespect to the game.
Depay did not mince words in his response to the decision. Taking to social media site X, he vented his frustration and bewilderment at the decision, stating that it conflicted with the spirit of Brazilian football—the same which had attracted him to the nation.
“I actually went to Brazil to also enjoy Jogo Bonito [the beautiful game] firsthand but now the CBF declared yesterday that no player can stand on the ball or the player will be given a yellow card,” Depay posted.
“Not that it is such a significant element in football but I don’t understand the problem here. There is so much quality over here. The happiness and enthusiasm in the manner of expressing ourselves on the field shouldn’t be restricted.”
He took it a step further, questioning the vision and leadership of the individuals responsible for decision-making at the top of Brazilian football.
“I honestly wonder about the board of the CBF. Who is making decisions over the future of this wonderful football nation?
“Let’s concern ourselves with how rules can serve the sport better and concern ourselves with the money side of football – what can help the clubs the fans the players rather than these daft announcements.”
Depay’s comments resonated with most players and fans, particularly since Brazil has long enjoyed a reputation for flair and style on the pitch. The concept of “Jogo Bonito” is more than merely finding the back of the net—its a feast of rhythm, style, and artistic expression. From Pele to Ronaldinho, Brazilian greats have rested their reputations on creativity and panache.
Even Neymar, Brazil’s most recognizable star, weighed in. Without mentioning the CBF or Depay by name, he went to Instagram to vent his frustration at the way the game appears to be going. “Football is becoming increasingly boring,” he posted—brief, but full of significance.
For others, the CBF’s action is a matter of discipline and respect for rivals, particularly under stress. They would say that ball-standing, especially in the dying minutes of a game, is to be interpreted as derisory or dishonorable behavior—kindling for already flared-up tempers. And having created the drama it did in the Corinthians-Palmeiras game, they think the action should be condemned.
But to some, like Depay, the new law seems like an overreaction—one that threatens to deprive football of its personality. Actions such as standing on the ball, rainbow flicks, and no-look passes do not necessarily contribute to the scoreboard, but they are a key part of the sport’s global popularity. They make mundane matches into moments of magic.
Depay’s trip to Brazil was about more than soccer—it was about experiencing a country where free-form play is not only tolerated but celebrated. With moves like his now punishable by law, though, he and others are wondering if Brazil still stands as the land of the beautiful game that it once bragged about.
The Depay pose, calmly standing over the ball while angry defenders closed in on him, has now acquired added significance. It’s no longer merely a flash from a final—it’s become a symbol for a greater conflict between tradition and regulation, expression and order, flair and formality.
The CBF is sticking by its decision. The debate about whether or not such flair should be limited is far from over, however, as condemnation from fans and some of the largest voices in the sport increases.
One can see that Depay’s position, literally as well as metaphorically, has reignited a very important debate in football: should the game continue to evolve into a more organized, system-based sport or should it retain the excitement, unpredictability, and artistic touch that previously made it so distinct?
