Koeman confirms: 'Memphis will start in the lineup'

Memphis Depay will feature for the Netherlands on Thursday evening in the much-anticipated Nations League clash against Spain at De Kuip, with kickoff set for March 20 at 20:45.

The confirmation from head coach Ronald Koeman marks a significant moment in Depay’s international career, as he returns to the Dutch national team and will be included in the starting lineup. For the experienced forward, this match is not just another fixture it represents a comeback after a challenging period away from Oranje and an opportunity to prove his worth at the highest level.

Koeman has shown great excitement about Memphis' return, particularly after observing his performances in training at Zeist, where the Netherlands squad gathered in preparation for the crucial Nations League doubleheader against Spain. The Dutch coach emphasized the striker’s physical condition, sharpness, and overall attitude, which have all impressed the technical staff. It is clear that Depay has arrived with renewed energy and a determination to reclaim his place as a key figure in the national team.

"As I saw Memphis in Brazil and as I see him now, the way he has arrived here and how fresh he looks in training… That’s not everything, but it does give confidence for tomorrow," Koeman said. The manager is optimistic about Depay’s fitness and believes he is in much better condition than he was in the build-up to last year’s European Championship in Germany, where injuries and form issues limited his impact.

The Netherlands are aiming for a strong performance against a talented Spanish side, and Depay’s presence in the starting eleven brings a crucial mix of experience, creativity, and goal-scoring ability. His technical skills, link-up play, and ability to operate both as a striker and a playmaker will be vital against Spain’s possession-based style of football. The Dutch team will look to him as one of their primary attacking outlets, especially given the high stakes of the encounter.

For Depay, this match will be particularly special, as it marks his 99th international appearance for the Netherlands. In his previous 98 games, he has found the back of the net 46 times, establishing himself as one of the most prolific forwards in Dutch history. Having played for clubs such as PSV, Manchester United, Lyon, Barcelona, and now Corinthians, his journey has been one of highs and lows, but his contributions to the national team have remained consistent.

His last appearance for Oranje came in the semi-final of the European Championship, and since then, he has missed three international call-ups due to fitness concerns and his move to Brazil. However, his return to the squad signifies that he is once again trusted by Koeman, who has long been a supporter of Depay’s qualities. The Dutch coach has been keen on reintegrating him into the squad at the right moment, and now seems to be the perfect time.

Koeman and Nigel de Jong, the KNVB's technical director, personally traveled to Brazil last month to watch Memphis play live for Corinthians. Their visit was not just about evaluating his form and fitness it was also a sign of how much belief they still have in his ability to contribute to the national team. Depay’s performances in Brazil have been promising, and the Dutch coaching staff saw enough to be convinced that he was ready to return to the squad for this crucial Nations League fixture.

His move to Corinthians has been one of the most talked-about transfers involving a European star in recent months. While many questioned his decision to leave European football at this stage of his career, Depay has embraced the challenge, using it as an opportunity to regain rhythm and confidence. The Brazilian league offers a different style of play compared to the top European leagues, but it has allowed him to focus on his game in a new environment.

As he steps onto the pitch at De Kuip on Thursday, Depay will have the chance to silence any doubts about his form and prove that he remains one of the most important attacking players for the Netherlands. With his 100th international cap on the horizon, his motivation will be at an all-time high, and a strong performance against Spain could set the stage for an even bigger role in the upcoming matches.

For Koeman and his coaching staff, Depay’s presence is a major boost. While the Dutch squad has a mix of exciting young talents and experienced players, having a proven goal-scorer like Depay back in the team adds another dimension to their attack. His ability to take on defenders, create chances, and score from a variety of positions makes him a key asset, particularly in a high-intensity match like the one against Spain.

The Netherlands will need to be at their best to secure a result, as Spain remains one of the strongest teams in international football. With a midfield that dominates possession and a defense that can be difficult to break down, the Dutch will rely on Depay’s movement and attacking intelligence to unlock the Spanish backline. His link-up play with the rest of the forward line, especially with players like Cody Gakpo and Xavi Simons, will be crucial in creating goal-scoring opportunities.

As the countdown to kickoff continues, all eyes will be on Memphis Depay. His return to the starting lineup is a statement of faith from Koeman, and now it is up to him to deliver on the pitch. A strong performance against Spain could mark the beginning of a new chapter in his international career, proving that despite his move to Brazil, he remains a vital part of the Dutch national team’s plans for the future.