Jesse Lingard has revealed he is settling into life at Corinthians following his move from FC Seoul in March, citing a unique connection with the club's supporters and a desire to learn Portuguese. The former Manchester United and England midfielder made the switch to the Brazilian Serie A side on a free transfer after a two-year spell in South Korea, and he recently scored his first goal for the Timão.
In an interview with the BBC, Lingard discussed his adaptation process, highlighting a cultural difference he has embraced. "I want to learn Portuguese," Lingard said. "Korean was very difficult. I learned a few words, but I feel like here I could really learn the language." He also expressed astonishment at the close proximity of Corinthians' fanbase, a stark contrast to his experiences in England and Asia. "I had never experienced that before," he admitted. "Supporters who come to the training centre... who talk to us. You see how passionate they are about our success and our victory."
The move to Corinthians represents another chapter in Lingard's well-traveled career, which saw him rise through the ranks at Manchester United before spells at West Ham United, Nottingham Forest, and Seoul. His arrival in São Paulo coincided with the club's signing of Dutch forward Memphis Depay, another former United player, as Corinthians bolstered their attacking options. The club's form has been strong, with the team currently on a run of six consecutive victories, a streak that has boosted their hopes of qualifying for the Copa Sudamericana.
Lingard's initial period in Brazil appears to be a positive one, both personally and professionally. After a challenging stint in Korea where language proved a significant barrier, his early embrace of Portuguese suggests a commitment to integrating fully into his new environment. The immediate rapport with the famously passionate Corinthians fanbase, known for their intense support, could provide a significant morale boost for the player as he looks to reignite his career at the age of 31.
The context of Lingard's move underscores a broader trend of experienced European players seeking opportunities in South America, often for cultural and sporting challenges later in their careers. For Corinthians, acquiring a player of Lingard's pedigree on a free transfer represents a calculated gamble, bringing in a veteran with Premier League and international experience to complement their squad. His adaptation and early goal suggest the move is beginning to pay dividends for both parties as they push for continental qualification.
