Starter on debut? Netherlands coach adopts caution with Memphis physique

Ronald Koeman, coach of the Netherlands, still has reservations regarding Memphis Depay's physical condition. The Corinthians striker did not take the field in the 2-1 victory over Uzbekistan, in the friendly match last Monday (8), and is not guaranteed a starting spot in the World Cup opener, against Japan.

After the friendly duel in New York, Koeman stated that he does not see Memphis in full physical condition to play from the start.

"To be honest, I don't think he's 100% ready to start playing yet. We still have a friendly and a few days of training. I'm not ruling anything out," said Koeman.

The good news for Memphis is that the Netherlands' attack has not been convincing in the warm-up friendlies for the World Cup. Donyell Malen, chosen to lead the offensive sector in recent matches, wasted good opportunities and has been causing discomfort.

"In two games, two penalty goals: that's a headache. We created two, three great chances with Summerville and Malen. But we have difficulties finishing. In any case, we have the quality to score goals", added the coach.

Greatest scorer in the history of the Dutch national team, Memphis played for 45 minutes, coming off the bench, in the defeat to Algeria, on the 3rd. After the friendly against Uzbekistan, the striker participated in an unofficial activity alongside the reserves who did not take to the field in the match.

Group F game table:
1st round:

- 14/6, at 5pm (Brasília time): Netherlands x Japan - AT&T Stadium, in Dallas, in the United States
- 14/6, at 11pm (Brasília time): Sweden x Tunisia - BBVA Stadium, in Guadeloupe, Mexico

2nd round:

- 20/6, at 2pm (GMT): Netherlands x Sweden - NRG Stadium, in Houston (USA)
- 21/6, at 1am (GMT): Tunisia x Japan - BBVA Stadium, in Guadeloupe, Mexico

3rd round:

- 25/6, at 8pm (GMT): Tunisia x Netherlands - Arrowhead Stadium, in Kansas City, in the United States
- 25/6, at 8pm (GMT): Japan x Sweden - AT&T Stadium, in Dallas, in the United States

Corinthians could receive millionaire value with Memphis in the World Cup

Source: CNN