Netherlands national team coach Ronald Koeman has shared his thoughts on forward Memphis Depay’s recent decision to join Brazilian soccer club Corinthians. The move has raised questions about Depay’s future with the Dutch national team, but Koeman offered a more nuanced view compared to his previous stance on other players.
Koeman acknowledged that while he had disapproved of Steven Bergwijn’s move to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ittihad, he viewed Depay’s transfer differently. “The level of the league in Brazil is different,” Koeman stated. “So yes, Depay can still be part of the national team, but it depends on his fitness and if he still reaches his level.”
Depay’s move to Corinthians comes amid a wave of European players exploring opportunities in less traditional football markets. However, Koeman’s comments suggest that the Brazilian league’s competitive standard may still align with the requirements for national team consideration. This stands in contrast to his view on the Saudi Pro League, which he implied does not provide the same level of competition.
Steven Bergwijn, who currently plays as a left winger or forward for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, saw his national team prospects diminish after his move. Koeman’s stance highlights the importance he places on maintaining a high level of competition for players who aspire to represent the Netherlands on the international stage.
For Memphis Depay, his fitness and ability to maintain his performance will be crucial in determining his continued involvement with the Dutch national team. As he begins his journey with Corinthians, all eyes will be on how well he adapts to the new environment and whether he can maintain the form required to stay in Koeman’s plans.
