Memphis Depay, the Dutch forward currently with Corinthians, is making headlines as he attempts to arrange a friendly match between Corinthians and Ashanti Kotoko, one of Ghana's most storied football clubs. This move not only highlights his dedication to his roots but also offers the Ghanaian team valuable exposure on international soil.
During his visit to the training facility of Ashanti Kotoko's base at Adako Jachie on December 26, 2024, Depay shared his plans openly with local players and coaches. "I'm trying to facilitate a friendly match between you and my team in Brazil. I spoke with the coach, it's on the plans. I hope it happens so you can show your talent during the friendly," he stated, as reported by 3 Sports. The statement showcases not only his ambition to bridge the gap between Brazilian and Ghanaian football but also the respect he holds for the athletes representing his father’s homeland.
Ashanti Kotoko currently sits at fifth place in the Ghana Premier League, accumulating 24 points—six points behind the league leaders Heart of Lions. Despite their historic dominance, with 24 national league titles and three continental championships, their last league win was during the 2021/2022 season. The proposed friendly would provide the Kotoko players with opportunities to hone their skills and display their talents against tough competition, which could be especially beneficial as they strive to reclaim their former glory.
Notably, during his visit, Depay also addressed the conditions of the training pitches where Kotoko players practice. He remarked, "You train on this type of pitch. I respect it; it’s not easy. The ball bounces too much, so it takes time to control it. How can we fix this?" This comment not only emphasizes his awareness of the obstacles athletes face but also his intentions to implement improvements to their training environment. He expressed his commitment to working behind the scenes to bring about such enhancements, signaling his role as both mentor and supporter.
Memphis has embraced his identity and heritage throughout his career, and this visit to Ghana demonstrates his desire to maintain those connections actively. Spending his holidays there, the site of his father's roots, he has engaged with local communities, visited underprivileged centers, and even filmed a music video featuring himself donned in the Corinthians colors. This outreach resonates deeply as it reflects his dedication to social initiatives, setting him apart from many contemporary athletes who rarely engage with their backgrounds when away from the spotlight.
Recent posts on social media also show his interactions with football personalities like French midfielder Paul Pogba and Pedro Silveira, the financial director of Corinthians, hinting at his significant engagement with football ventures even during his downtime. These interactions not only reflect his dedication to the Corinthians cause but also his reach within the sport's global network.
Regarding the match, the narrative remains hopeful but grounded. Depay acknowledged potential complications, stating, "I will return with the idea to the coach of Timão, Ramón Díaz, and I hope it works out." While the logistics of Brazilian football’s packed calendar may pose challenges, his persistence and enthusiasm could lead to meaningful outcomes.
Memphis Depay's initiative to arrange this match is more than just about playing football; it symbolizes unity, cultural exchange, and the nurturing of young talent. His efforts to uplift Ashanti Kotoko's prospects and provide them with the chance to shine on the Brazilian stage could prove transformative for both clubs. The world of football often serves as a conduit for connection, and with Depay’s motivations, the beautiful game might yet see promising interactions between Ghana's historic club and Brazil's Corinthians on the horizon.
