Memphis Depay Committed to Netherlands Despite Brazil Move
Netherlands forward Memphis Depay has directly addressed his international future, affirming his commitment to the Oranje despite his move to Brazilian club Corinthians. In an interview with Dutch broadcaster Ziggo Sport, the 30-year-old striker dismissed any suggestion that his club move would affect his national team ambitions, stating, "I have not yet finished my adventure with the national team." Depay, who has scored 45 goals in 93 appearances for the Netherlands, remains a key figure for the Oranje as they prepare for the upcoming World Cup.
Depay's move to Corinthians in September 2024 raised questions about his international prospects, particularly after national team manager Ronald Koeman recently emphasized the importance of match fitness for his squad selection. However, the player has started strongly in Brazil, scoring 20 goals for his new club, including a goal in the Brazilian Cup final victory in December. His form has been a bright spot for the Sao Paulo-based club.
The Dutch forward also addressed the criticism he has faced throughout his career, which has followed him from his early days at PSV Eindhoven. "The criticism I often receive doesn't bother me too much, because I can't prevent it. I've had to deal with it for a long time," Depay said. He pointed to his prolific international scoring record as a point of pride. "I have scored 23 goals in 23 matches in World Cup qualifiers. Of course, we face weaker teams, but someone has to score the goals," he added, referencing his crucial role in the Netherlands' successful qualifying campaign.
Depay's move to South America was a significant transfer, but the forward has quickly adapted, and his goal-scoring form has silenced some early doubts. His performance in Brazil has been a testament to his resilience, as he has consistently found the net in a new and challenging league. The forward's primary goal remains winning a major trophy with the Netherlands, a team with which he has become a record-setter, becoming the nation's all-time top scorer in 2023. His immediate focus, however, is on maintaining his fitness and form to secure his place in Koeman's final squad for the World Cup, where he hopes to lead the Oranje to glory.
