Gil assures Corinthians fans he will sign long-term contract | OneFootball

On Friday, Corinthians centre-back Gil gave an explanation for why he has only signed on for an initial six months.

Though the 32-year-old could, in fact, change clubs in January, he explained how the short-term deal was simply an accounting move.

Gil has already given the club his word that, in January, he will put pen-to-paper on a deal that is expected to keep him in São Paulo until December 2022.

“The six months is for the remaining time I had in China,” Gil said.

“I have given my word to President [Andrés Sanchez], and he does not have to worry about it. Everything will work out in six months and the years that are ahead.”

The defender had six months remaining on his contract with Chinese Super League side Shandong Luneng, but stressed that happiness was the motivation behind returning to the club that had given him much success between 2013 and 2016.

“The motivation was the desire to play for Corinthians again, to feel at home again. I built a very beautiful story in China, but it’s time to feel the pleasure of playing football again.

“It was three difficult years. The Corinthians players were sending messages. I came back to be happy again and I came home to a crowd that welcomed me with a lot of love.”