Depay misses Netherlands camp after passport theft in Brazil
Netherlands all-time top scorer Memphis Depay has been forced to delay his arrival at the national team camp after his passport was reportedly stolen in Brazil, where he currently plays for Corinthians.
Depay was scheduled to fly to the Netherlands on Sunday evening, but was unable to make the trip due to the missing travel document.
The Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) confirmed in a statement that the forward is working to resolve the issue and join up with his teammates “as soon as possible.”
Koeman expresses frustration but remains hopeful
Head coach Ronald Koeman expressed disappointment at the development, noting that Depay’s absence disrupts early preparations for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
“This is unfortunate, primarily for Memphis, but also for us. You naturally want to start your international preparations with a full squad. At the same time, there are circumstances beyond our control. We hope he can travel and join us at the training camp as soon as possible,” Koeman said.
The Netherlands will face Malta away on Thursday before hosting Finland on Sunday in Amsterdam.
Depay, who became the Netherlands’ all-time leading scorer last month after netting twice against Lithuania, now boasts 52 goals in 104 international appearances, surpassing Robin van Persie’s previous record.
The Dutch currently sit atop Group G of the qualifiers, level on points with Poland but ahead on goal difference, with a game in hand.