Lingard Makes History as First English Player in Brazil's Top Division, Eyes Trophy Glory with Corinthians

Jesse Lingard has become a trailblazer in South American football, marking himself as the inaugural English player to compete in Brazil's premier league division since joining Corinthians. The 33-year-old former Manchester United forward is adjusting to his new surroundings and has already netted his first goal in Copa do Brasil competition.

Lingard's transfer raised eyebrows among local analysts, with commentator Mauro Cezar Pereira characterizing the move as an unconventional recruitment choice. Nevertheless, the veteran attacker, who arrived following his tenure at FC Seoul, is adapting positively to life in South America.

Settling Into Brazilian Football

"It's still high-level football," Lingard explains of his decision to relocate. "I think I can play at a high level. For me, it was just about the competition - how big the club is here, how big the league is. I had offers on the table, but I still test myself out."

His ambitions in Brazil are straightforward: "I've come here to lift a trophy."

Memphis Depay, Lingard's former Old Trafford colleague, played a key role in persuading him to join the Sao Paulo outfit and has continued to support his integration. Lingard made his Corinthians debut against Fluminense at the iconic Maracana Stadium earlier this month, describing the experience as "amazing" following an extended period away from competitive action.

The club has undergone significant upheaval since his arrival. Initial manager Dorival Junior departed after an eight-match winless streak that saw Corinthians slip toward the relegation zone. His replacement, Fernando Diniz—who previously served as Brazil's interim coach—has reversed the tide, with the team recording victories in consecutive Libertadores matches.

The Passionate Fanbase

Lingard has already witnessed the fervent dedication of Corinthians supporters, who have made appearances at the training facility. "I'd never experienced it before," he reflects. "Fans going into the training ground... speaking to us. You see how passionate they are for us to do well and win. It only gives us more reason to win on a matchday. When you fall short, of course, you're going to get the scrutiny."

Language has emerged as another learning curve. Unlike his time in Korea, where he had a dedicated translator, Lingard is tackling Portuguese independently in Brazil. "Some players speak a little bit of English and do translate a little bit," he notes. "But I want to pick up Portuguese. The Korean language was very difficult. I picked up a few words, but I feel like here I could actually learn the language." He has already mastered basic greetings and how to order a coffee.

Reflecting on Manchester United

Lingard maintains keen interest in developments at his boyhood club, which he departed in June 2022 after spending two decades at the institution. "We achieved amazing things," he says of his United tenure. "But there's going to be a point in time where you move on. For me, it was Korea."

Though acknowledging initial surprise at his Korean move, Lingard emphasizes the decision allowed him to concentrate on his game and "clear my mind."

United have recently experienced a resurgence since Michael Carrick assumed managerial duties in January, replacing Ruben Amorim. Lingard credits his former teammate with steering the club "leaps and bounds" forward and insists Carrick merits permanent appointment to the position. "It can be difficult with different managers coming in, having different ideas, different personnel," he explains. "But I think they're really on the right track with Michael. I know him from my United days. I know how he operates. The lads are doing really well under him. He's got that Manchester United DNA inside of him. He knows the ins and outs of the club."

Lingard maintains an active connection with United captain Bruno Fernandes, describing him as a consistent source of encouragement. "He always wanted to see the best of me at United," Lingard states. "He's always been a guy that's been there, that I can always reach out to."

The Portuguese midfielder, now 31, has supplied 18 Premier League assists this campaign—two short of the season record with five fixtures remaining. Lingard believes Fernandes warrants Ballon d'Or consideration based on his current performances. "100%," he asserts. "His performances at Manchester United this season have been extraordinary. He has to be up there."

Anticipating Encounters with Brazilian Stars

When discussing his favorite Brazilian footballers, Lingard identifies Neymar and 2005 Ballon d'Or recipient Ronaldinho. He maintains periodic contact with Neymar, football's costliest player following his £200 million transfer from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017, and expresses composure regarding the possibility of facing him should Corinthians encounter Santos.

"It's always good to play against world-class players," he remarks. "You can test yourself against some of these guys."

Lingard once became an internet sensation for humorously mocking former United teammate Marcus Rashford over an alleged pre-match tunnel conversation with Neymar about meteorological conditions. When posed with an identical scenario, Lingard chuckles: "There'd be too many memes about that, to be honest. I might mention the Brazilian weather... it is sunny!"

World Cup Outlook

Having earned 32 England caps, including participation in the 2018 World Cup where the Three Lions fell to Croatia in the semi-final, Lingard maintains optimism regarding his nation's prospects at this summer's North American tournament. He highlights Brazil, England, and France as formidable contenders, yet backs England to claim the trophy. "We've always had a good chance," he explains. "I think in big tournaments, we always do well. I believe in the lads. I know how good they are, so I don't see why not."