Memphis Depay starts on bench for Netherlands in World Cup opener
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 14, 2026, 7:53 PM
Last updated Jun 14, 2026
Memphis Depay will not start for the Netherlands in their opening match against Japan at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Depay, recognized as a key player, will come off the bench as the team opts for a different lineup. At 32, his recent performance at Corinthians has been below his previous standards with top clubs like Manchester United and Barcelona. He has scored 16 goals in 58 appearances since joining Corinthians but is not in the starting 11 for this match.
- •Depay will come off the bench against Japan.
- •This is his first match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- •He has not achieved his peak performance since joining Corinthians.
- •Netherlands has chosen a different attacking strategy for the opener.
- •Depay has a strong international record with 109 caps and 55 goals.
- 7:53 PMYahoo Sports — Why Memphis Depay isn't starting for Netherlands at the World Cup
"The talented forward will come off the bench.
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