DALLAS, June 14, 2026 (V7N) – Memphis Depay is fit to start the Netherlands' World Cup opener against Japan in Dallas on Sunday, coach Ronald Koeman said, calling the attacker "a key part" of their title charge. Depay, the Netherlands' all-time top goalscorer with 55 goals, is short of match fitness having only returned in May from a two-month injury-enforced absence.
The 32-year-old Corinthians forward has endured a difficult year with form and fitness, but Koeman hinted he will start against a dangerous Japanese side. Koeman, who said he has already told his squad the starting XI, did not use Depay in the 2-1 friendly win over Uzbekistan this week, though he did play a half of the 1-0 defeat to Algeria at the start of June.
"Memphis is fit. He would be able to start the game. He has progressed well, so things are looking good. He is an important player. He has been so for a very long time, and he is a key part to our possible success in this World Cup," said the former international defender Koeman. Winger Crysencio Summerville is also in strong contention after a good season with West Ham despite their Premier League relegation.
The Dutch have been World Cup runners-up three times and are fancied to go far again in North America. However, they come into the tournament missing several key players with injury, including Tottenham attacker Xavi Simons and Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber. Koeman knows the nation expects even if they are below full strength.
"There is always pressure," Koeman said. "The Netherlands may not be a very large country geographically, but it is a country that is always present on big tournaments and we put a lot of pressure on ourselves." The Dutch will face Japan, Sweden, and Tunisia in Group F, with expectations high for another deep tournament run.
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