Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman cautious on Memphis after World Cup call-up | OneFootball

Memphis Depay has been named in the Netherlands squad for the World Cup, with Ronald Koeman tempering expectations around his readiness. According to Meu Timao, the Corinthians forward was confirmed on Wednesday.

Koeman said he would have preferred Memphis to have returned sooner and shown he was match ready earlier. The striker missed more than two months with a right hamstring problem, then came back in Sunday’s 1-0 win over Atlético-MG.

Further minutes are expected on Wednesday when Corinthians face Platense at Neo Química Arena in the Libertadores group finale for Fernando Diniz's side. Koeman said Memphis told him he will start, and they will see how it goes.

Even with the call-up, his starting spot is not assured. Koeman left the central striking role open, citing competition from Donyell Malen, who has 15 goals in 20 for Roma, and said he could choose differently after reflecting on the Euros.

Memphis is Corinthians’ only representative at this World Cup and becomes the club’s 25th player to feature, following names such as Cássio and Rivellino.

FIFA will pay Corinthians 11,000 dollars per day while Memphis is at the finals, equating to 132,000 dollars for the group stage, and it could reach 396,000 dollars if the Netherlands go all the way. The Netherlands are in Group F, opening against Japan on 14 June, then Sweden on 20 June, before Tunisia on 25 June.

Source: Meu Timao