Memphis Depay Fit for Netherlands' World Cup Opener Against Japan
Published June 14, 2026
Despite recent injury concerns, Memphis Depay has been declared fit for the Netherlands' opening 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Japan, though he will not start.
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The Netherlands national team, under coach Ronald Koeman, is preparing to kick off its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in Group F against Japan. As one of the tournament favorites, with a squad boasting talent like Virgil van Dijk and Frenkie de Jong, much attention has been on the fitness of key players, particularly veteran forward Memphis Depay.
Depay, who holds the record as the Netherlands' all-time leading goalscorer with 55 international goals, has been battling a right thigh injury. The issue arose on March 22 during a match for his club, Brazilian side Corinthians, and has limited him to just three appearances since that date. His absence from a recent friendly against Uzbekistan had fueled speculation regarding his readiness for the global spectacle set to unfold across the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Koeman's Positive Update
However, coach Ronald Koeman has offered a reassuring update on the striker's condition. While Depay was not named in the starting eleven for the crucial opening fixture against Japan, Koeman confirmed that the player is indeed fit and capable of starting. The coach noted that Depay's fitness has significantly improved over the ten-day period leading up to the tournament, though he opted not to divulge further specifics on the tactical decision to keep him out of the initial lineup. This news will undoubtedly be a relief for Dutch fans hoping for a deep run in the expanded 48-team tournament.