Netherlands coach praises Memphis, but warns about fitness before the World Cup

Coach Ronald Koeman stated this Wednesday (27) that Memphis Depay's call-up for the World Cup was already expected, but highlighted that the player will need to prove his physical condition in the coming weeks before the start of the tournament.

The greatest scorer in the history of the Netherlands, with 55 goals in 108 matches, Depay was included in the final list of 26 players even after playing little in the last two months for Corinthians.

The 32-year-old striker made just two appearances off the bench during this period. Half of those minutes happened last weekend.

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Koeman revealed that he spoke to the player, who informed him that he would be a starter in Corinthians' match against Platense for the Copa Libertadores da América.

"I would have preferred him to have played sooner. In April, I didn't know when he would be able to play again. He could be important for us, just like Jurrien Timber," he said.

Koeman highlighted that he still sees Depay as a valuable piece for the Dutch team.

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"I call Memphis because of the player he still is. I don't see another athlete in that position capable of doing what he does. I believe he can add a lot, but he needs to get through this next period well", he commented.

The coach also explained that the striker's physical condition will be decisive in defining his use in the World Cup. Before that, the Dutch face Algeria and Uzbekistan.

"We have two friendlies. If he's at the level I consider ideal, he could start playing. Otherwise, he won't be a starter. I also know he can play the role of reserve well."

The Netherlands are in Group F of the World Cup, alongside Japan, Sweden and Tunisia. A Clockwork Orange's first game is on June 14th, against the Japanese.

See the squad list

- Goalkeepers: Verbruggen, Flekken, Roefs
- Defenders: Dumfries, Wieffer, Van Dijk, Van Hecke, Jurriën Timber, Aké, Van de Ven, Hato
- Midfielders: De Jong, Reijnders, Gravenberch, Koopmeiners, Justin Kluivert, De Roon, Quinten Timber, Til
- Forwards: Memphis Depay, Gakpo, Malen, Summerville, Noa Lang, Weghorst, Brobbey

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Source: CNN