In a dramatic turn of events, midfielder Edenilson, now playing for Grêmio, has filed a lawsuit against his former club Internacional, seeking to recover unpaid image rights from his last year with the team. The action has sent shockwaves through the football community, particularly among Internacional fans who remember Edenilson's significant contributions during his tenure at the club.
Edenilson's legal claim amounts to approximately R$ 530,000, a figure he alleges was agreed upon during his departure from Internacional in 2022. Despite his efforts to resolve the issue amicably, Edenilson found himself compelled to take legal action after the club failed to meet the contractual obligations regarding payment. "I have extreme respect for the institution but fulfilled my contract with great professionalism and only demand what was agreed," Edenilson stated in a recent note.
The midfielder’s journey with Internacional began in 2017, when he joined the club to bolster their campaign in the Série B of the Brasileirão. Over the course of five years, Edenilson became a fan favorite, making 306 appearances and scoring 48 goals while also contributing 32 assists. His dynamic play and leadership on the field helped Internacional secure vital victories, earning him a reputation as one of the club's key players.
However, as his contract neared its end in 2022, tensions began to rise between Edenilson and the club’s supporters. Mistakes made during critical matches led to a decline in his standing among fans, and there was widespread pressure for the club not to renew his contract. Ultimately, Internacional opted against extending his stay, leading Edenilson to seek new opportunities.
In April 2024, the announcement of Edenilson's transfer to Grêmio shocked many, especially given the fierce rivalry between the two clubs. Fans of Internacional expressed their discontent over the move, feeling betrayed by a player who had once been a stalwart of their team. Despite the backlash, Edenilson embraced his new role at Grêmio, where he has since made a significant impact.
Since joining Grêmio, Edenilson has played 57 matches, netting four goals and leading the team with six assists in the current 2025 season. His ability to create opportunities and contribute to the team's success has not gone unnoticed, and he continues to recover from a mild muscle injury that has sidelined him briefly.
As the lawsuit unfolds, the football community is watching closely. Edenilson's decision to pursue legal action against Internacional has sparked discussions about player rights and contractual obligations in Brazilian football. Legal experts suggest that the outcome of this case could set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled in the future.
In a statement regarding the lawsuit, Edenilson expressed his disappointment over the situation, emphasizing that he had hoped to avoid legal proceedings. "I waited for the payment to be made until the deadline to try to avoid the judicial process. Unfortunately, Internacional did not fulfill the payment that was stipulated in the employment contract, and it was inevitable to file the lawsuit," he explained.
The ongoing legal battle adds another layer to the already tense relationship between Edenilson and Internacional's fanbase. Many supporters feel conflicted about the player who once wore their colors now seeking compensation through the courts. As the case progresses, it remains to be seen how both sides will navigate this contentious issue.
With Edenilson's legal action against Internacional, the narrative surrounding his career continues to evolve. What was once a celebrated partnership has now turned into a contentious battle over contractual obligations and respect between player and club. As both sides prepare for the legal proceedings, the implications of this case could resonate throughout Brazilian football, influencing how clubs manage player contracts and fulfill financial commitments moving forward.
For Edenilson, this chapter of his career is marked by both personal achievements and professional challenges. As he continues to recover from his injury and contribute to Grêmio's season, the outcome of his lawsuit against Internacional looms large, potentially affecting not only his reputation but also the broader landscape of football in Brazil.
As fans and analysts alike await further developments, one thing is clear: the rivalry between Grêmio and Internacional has taken on a new dimension, with Edenilson at the center of this unfolding drama. The coming weeks will be crucial as the case is reviewed and both parties prepare to present their arguments.
