Ronald Koeman highlights Memphis Depay's evolution after returning to the Netherlands national team

- By Mirella Ramos / Central do Timão Editorial

Forward Memphis Depay returned to play for the Netherlands last Sunday (14), in the 2-2 draw against Japan, in the first round of the World Cup group stage. The Corinthians player started the match on the bench, but came on in the second half and participated in the offensive actions of the team led by Ronald Koeman.

Shirt number 10 was called on in the 24th minute of the final stage, replacing Malen. During the period on the field, Memphis helped the Netherlands in an attempt to regain control of the match, at a time when the Japanese team was putting pressure on and making it difficult for the Europeans to get the ball out.

Photo: Reproduction / Instagram

After the match, Ronald Koeman commented on the participation of the Corinthian striker and stated that Memphis is approaching the level expected by the Dutch national team's technical committee.

"Memphis is reaching the level we want from him. Naturally, you put him on the field because the team was retreating more and more. We practically couldn't get out into the game. So, with Koopmeiners and Memphis, you try to have more ball retention. And that didn't totally work, because even on our left side we were overcome a few times, which ended up creating dangerous situations. That's football", began the coach.

The coach explained that Memphis' entry came at a time when Holland needed to increase its ability to maintain possession of the ball and find offensive alternatives in the face of opposing pressure.

The match marked the return of the Corinthians striker to the Dutch national team, after a period without playing for the national team. Memphis continues to be one of the Netherlands' main offensive references and is looking to regain space in the group as they prepare for the rest of the competition.

With the draw against Japan, the Netherlands returns to the field on June 20th, against Sweden, at 2pm (Brasília time), at NRG Stadium, in Houston. The last match of the group stage will be against Tunisia, on June 25th, at 8pm, at Arrowhead Stadium, in Kansas City.

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The content Ronald Koeman highlights Memphis Depay's evolution after returning to the Netherlands national team appears first in Central do Timão.

Source: Timao Central