In a major shake-up for one of Brazil's most iconic football clubs, Corinthians is on the verge of ending its long-standing partnership with Nike, a relationship that has lasted over two decades. The club is in advanced negotiations with Adidas, which has submitted a lucrative proposal to become the new kit supplier starting in 2026. This potential switch comes as the current contract with Nike is set to expire at the end of 2025, but it includes an automatic renewal clause that could extend the partnership until 2029.
According to Paulo Cobos, a blogger for ESPN, "the agreement between Adidas and the club from Parque São Jorge is imminent." The dissatisfaction with Nike has been growing among fans, particularly regarding the lack of available merchandise, especially club jerseys. President Augusto Melo has indicated that he sees legal loopholes that could allow the club to terminate its existing contract with Nike.
As reported by José Edgar de Matos from Globo Esporte, Adidas's proposal could be worth up to R$ 1 billion over ten years, which translates to around R$ 100 million annually. This deal would position Adidas as the supplier for both Corinthians and Flamengo, the two teams with the largest fanbases in Brazil, collectively representing around 40% of the country's football supporters.
In the meantime, the club is gearing up for a crucial match against Mirassol in the Brasileirão Betano, scheduled for Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 18:30 (Brasília time). The team is currently in eighth place in the league with ten points, and a victory could bring them closer to qualifying for the group stage of the 2026 Conmebol Libertadores.
On the coaching front, Dorival Jr. has been implementing a strategy focused on reintegrating players who previously had limited playing time. Notably, defenders Félix Torres, Cacá, and Diego Palacios have all seen increased roles under his leadership. Torres, who had been sidelined due to repeated expulsions, is set to return to the starting lineup after a tumultuous season. His last match was marred by a red card in the Copa Sul-Americana against Racing from Uruguay, which kept him out of the first three games under Dorival.
Meanwhile, Cacá has made a triumphant return to the starting eleven, having played the full 90 minutes in the last three matches after previously losing his place during the peak of the Brasileirão. Palacios, who last featured in February, is also back in contention for the match against Mirassol.
However, the team will be without Venezuelan midfielder José Martínez, who is recovering from emergency dental surgery. His absence will undoubtedly impact the midfield dynamic, but it also opens up opportunities for other players within the squad.
As the team prepares for this important fixture, Dorival has been conducting tactical training sessions, focusing on set pieces and specific game situations. The probable lineup for the match features Hugo Souza in goal; Matheuzinho, Félix Torres, Cacá, and Angileri in defense; Raniele, André Carrillo (or Charles), Breno Bidon (or Maycon), and Romero in midfield; with Memphis Depay and Yuri Alberto leading the attack.
The stakes are high as Corinthians looks to capitalize on their recent form. With the potential for a new sponsorship deal on the horizon and a renewed focus on player reintegration, the club is at a pivotal moment. A win against Mirassol would not only boost their league standing but also set a positive tone for the future as they navigate these significant changes.
