The Netherlands national team coach, Ronald Koeman, has issued a clear warning to Memphis Depay regarding his physical condition to secure a spot in the final squad for the 2026 World Cup. In a press conference, the former Benfica coach addressed the situation of the 32-year-old forward from Corinthians, who is recovering from a right thigh injury, and emphasized the need for physical improvement to be an asset for the team. "He is not fully recovered (from the thigh injury). That explains why he is not playing. Time is running out. We only have eight weeks left, so we will have to wait and see," stated the Dutch coach. Koeman also revealed that he had a conversation with the player about his near future. "I don't think Memphis is surprised by this. We had a very healthy conversation about how he views this upcoming period. There are still many matches to be played, with a game every three days. He will need to be at his peak… Otherwise, he won't have the ability to be decisive," he added. It is worth noting that Memphis Depay traveled to the Netherlands last week to begin treatment for a grade 2 muscle injury in his right thigh. Due to this physical issue, the forward was released from the Dutch national team's friendly matches. The injury is expected to keep Depay off the pitch for approximately four weeks, during which he will miss important matches for Corinthians, including the first two rounds of the Libertadores and a classic against Palmeiras, coached by Abel Ferreira. So far this season, the forward has recorded one goal and one assist in 12 matches played for the Brazilian club.
The Netherlands Ronald Koeman remains central to this story.
The Netherlands Ronald Koeman remains central to this story.
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