Struggling São Paulo club Corinthians is getting creative as it looks to reverse its fortunes and avoid relegation.
The club announced Clarence Seedorf as its next manager on a deal that keeps the Dutchman at the club through 2027.
“Taking on this challenge is an honor, but also a huge responsibility," Seedorf said in a club statement. "I am here to give my all and build a team that fights for every ball, every minute, every victory."
While a legend as a player, Seedorf has been less consistent as a manager. He last coached the Cameroon national team, taking them to the 2019 African Cup of Nations. Before that, he coached AC Milan, the club for which he played 300 matches, and made stops in China and Spain.
He has since worked as an adviser to a number
of clubs and also appeared on Fox's 2026 World Cup coverage as an analyst.
What is the link between Clarence Seedorf and Corinthians?
Seedorf has a connection to Brazil, having closed out his career with Botafogo between 2012-2014. He previously was married to a Brazilian woman, though the two are no longer together.
Seedorf joins Netherlands attacker Memphis Depay at the club. The 32-year-old was set to leave the club this summer but accepted a paycut to stay with the Timão.
Seedorf replaces Fernando Diniz, who was fired three days ago. The team has lost all of its last five league matches and also was eliminated from the Copa Libertadores quarterfinals by Argentine club Estudiantes de la Plata.
Now, Seedorf must keep the club from relegation, with Corinthians sitting 16th - one point above the drop zone. He and his staff will arrive later this week, avoiding a difficult debut, with Corinthians set to contest the Derby Paulista on Sunday, Oct. 11, visiting crosstown rival Palmeiras.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Brazilian club makes surprise appointment, turning to Dutch great
