Ronald Koeman Praises Memphis Depay After Record-Breaking Achievement

From 'terrible winger' to Record-Breaker: Koeman's pride in Depay

Ronald Koeman expresses pride and admiration for Memphis Depay after he breaks the Netherlands' all-time goals record.

“I saw him once with the Dutch U21 team and thought: 'What a terrible winger, all he does is complain...” 

Ronald Koeman expressed pride and admiration for Memphis Depay after the forward broke the Dutch all-time goals record with a brace against Lithuania. Depay, who plays for Corinthians, scored two crucial goals in the Netherlands' 3-2 win over Lithuania in a World Cup qualifier, surpassing Robin van Persie's record of 50 goals.

Koeman has developed a strong bond with Depay over the years, having consistently backed him even during periods of struggle with club form. “We've known each other for a long time. Sometimes you have a bond with a player that is just a little stronger and bigger,” Koeman said. “You build that kind of bond together.” This bond is evident in Koeman's praise for Depay, highlighting the player's growth and current form.

Memphis Depay's record-breaking goals were a highlight of the match against Lithuania, showcasing his skill and contribution to the team's success. Notably, 20 of Depay's 52 international goals were scored under Koeman's guidance. The Netherlands secured a 3-2 victory, maintaining their unbeaten streak in the qualifiers.

With this win, the Netherlands stays at the top of Group G with 10 points from four matches, putting them in a strong position for World Cup qualification. Their next challenge will be crucial in determining their final standing in the group.

Set a new all-time record. 🔝⚽️#NothingLikeOranje pic.twitter.com/zthy91Fxqr

— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) September 8, 2025

Koeman's Enduring Bond with Depay

“What a terrible winger,” Koeman joked, reflecting on his long-standing relationship with Memphis Depay. Having managed Depay on three separate occasions—twice with the Netherlands national team and once at Barcelona—Koeman has developed a deep understanding and appreciation for the player. This familiarity is evident in Koeman's pride over Depay becoming the Netherlands' all-time top scorer. Their history together has allowed them to build a strong bond, both on and off the field.

“Of course, I also brought him to FC Barcelona once and travelled to Brazil specifically to see if he could still be of sufficient value to the Dutch national team as a Corinthians player. You don't do that for everyone. You can't decide whether to call someone up or not from a distance. I am still able to motivate him.”

Ronald Koeman's opinion of Memphis Depay wasn't always glowing. When Depay was a young player with the Dutch U21 team, Koeman's impression was less than favorable. “I saw him once with the Dutch U21 team and thought: 'What a terrible winger, all he does is complain,'” Koeman recalled. Despite this initial skepticism, Koeman has since developed a strong bond with Depay, who has grown into one of the Netherlands' most prolific strikers. Depay's determination and work ethic have clearly won over Koeman, who now praises him as a player and individual