Clarence Seedorf Named Corinthians Coach on Deal Until End of 2027

Corinthians have appointed Clarence Seedorf as head coach of their men's team on a contract that runs until the end of 2027. The club announced the signing on Sunday, October 11.

The 50-year-old Dutchman replaces Fernando Diniz, who was sacked on Wednesday after a defeat to Internacional. Corinthians are 16th in the Brasileirão, just one point above the relegation zone. The club won the Brazilian Cup and the Super Cup earlier this year, which makes the slump all the more painful.

This is Seedorf's first coaching job in seven years. His last was in charge of Cameroon from 2018 to 2019. He has also managed AC Milan (2014), Shenzhen (2016) and Deportivo La Coruña (2018). As a player, he won the Champions League with three different clubs, and he also played in Brazil with Botafogo.

Seedorf said it was an honour to accept the challenge, but also a big responsibility. He promised to build a team that fights for every ball, every minute. Club president Osmar Stabile said he was delighted with the signing, while football executive Marcelo Paz praised Seedorf's playing career, his academic background and his earlier experience of Brazilian football.

Seedorf was not among the leading names on most shortlists. Ramón Díaz, Juan Vojvoda, Sylvinho and Javier Mascherano were all reported to have been considered. Corinthians play second-placed Palmeiras on the day of the announcement, so the new coach's work begins with a tough fixture.