Coronado returns to Sharjah as Corinthians free up wage bill | OneFootball

Igor Coronado has completed a transfer from Corinthians to Sharjah FC, marking a return to the United Arab Emirates for the Brazilian attacking midfielder. The move was confirmed on July 4, 2025, with Sharjah FC officially announcing the signing. While the transfer fee has not been disclosed, Coronado’s current market value is set at €2.0 million.

Coronado, now 32, brings with him a history of varied experiences across several leagues. After starting his career in the youth ranks at Milton Keynes Dons in England, he had spells at clubs including Grasshoppers in Switzerland, Banbury United in England, and Floriana in Malta. His journey took him to Italy with Trapani and Palermo before he first landed at Sharjah FC in 2018. He later moved to Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, and then Corinthians in Brazil, which he joined in 2023.

His second stint at Corinthians produced 58 appearances, with six goals and five assists. In 2025, Coronado featured in 14 matches, scoring twice. However, his time in Brazil was often disrupted by injuries. Thigh, adductor, and shoulder problems limited his consistency and ability to establish himself as a regular starter. Rodrigo Garro’s rise under coach Ramón Díaz further reduced Coronado’s opportunities in the attacking midfield role.

The financial aspect loomed large over his stay at Corinthians. His high salary, combined with intermittent performances, put pressure on the club’s management. Balancing the books and reallocating resources for other potential signings likely became a priority, especially with Garro featuring more prominently. For Corinthians, this transfer not only frees up wages but also offers the chance to reshape their squad moving forward.

Sharjah FC, meanwhile, welcomes back a familiar face. Coronado’s previous spell at the club, from 2018 to 2021, saw him adapt well to football in the region. Reactions from Sharjah supporters suggest optimism about his return, with expectations that his experience and previous success in the Middle East can translate into a positive impact on the pitch.

For Coronado, the move offers a new chapter in a region where he has already shown the ability to thrive. Interest from other Middle Eastern clubs was noted, but the allure of an international contract and the prospect of rejoining a former team appear to have influenced his decision.

Details about his contract length, salary, or public presentation at Sharjah FC have not been made available. Direct statements from either club’s management have also not been issued. Despite this, Coronado’s track record in the UAE suggests that integration into the squad should not be an issue, as he resumes a role in a league and a club he knows well.

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