Corinthians forward Memphis Depay has expressed his disappointment with the Brazilian Football Confederation’s new rule barring players from showboating by standing on the ball.
The Dutch-born Ghanaian wrote in a post on X that his move to Brazil was inspired by the country’s well-known love for flair and skill, commonly referred to as jogo bonito, which translates to “the beautiful game.
The former Barcelona and Atletico Madrid man added that the CBF’s decision to make “standing on the ball” a punishable offence is irrelevant, as it has no real impact on the game.
“I actually came to Brazil to witness jogo bonito firsthand, but now the CBF has announced that no player can stand on the ball or they will receive a yellow card. It’s not like it’s a significant factor in football—I see no issue here,” he wrote.
“Brazilian football is ascending and deserves global recognition! There’s so much talent here. The joy and passion we express on the field should have no boundaries. So I truly wonder about the direction of the CBF—who is deciding the future of this beautiful footballing nation?” he added.
In an official release, the CBF stated that standing on the ball with both feet is now a punishable offence and will result in a yellow card.
Additionally, referees have been instructed to award the opposing team a free kick at the spot where the incident occurs.
“The CBF’s Refereeing Commission has instructed officials to penalize this action with an indirect free kick for the opposing team at the location of the foul and to caution the offender with a yellow card,” the notice stated.
Background
Memphis Depay sparked a heated brawl with the move during the Campeonato Paulista title final against Palmeiras on Thursday, March 28, 2025.
The Netherlands striker was at the centre of a scuffle that led to multiple red cards in the final moments of the game.
In an attempt to waste time while Corinthians led 1-0 on aggregate, Depay took the ball toward the corner flag and stood on it with both feet, provoking an intense reaction from Palmeiras players.
The incident quickly escalated, with players from both teams rushing in as officials struggled to restore order. It was one of several fiery moments in the match, which saw three red cards issued.