file_get_contents getting wrong results

I am using PHP 7.3.5 with nginx/1.16.0. Sometimes file_get_contents returns the wrong value when using a symlink. The problem is after deleting and recreating a symlink, its old value remains in the cache. Sometimes the correct value is returned, sometimes the old value. It appears random.

I've tried to clear the cache or prevent caching with:

function symlink1($target, $link)
{
    realpath_cache_size(0);
    symlink($target, $link);
    //clearstatcache(true);
}

I don't really want to disable caching but I still need 100% accuracy with file_get_contents.

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