Netherlands: Memphis Depay’s arrival for international duty delayed by stolen passport

Netherlands striker Memphis Depay has yet to link up with the squad for this month’s World Cup qualifiers after having his passport stolen.

Depay is Netherlands’ record goalscorer having scored 52 goals in 104 games for his country.

Netherlands are top of Group G in UEFA qualifying for the 2026 World Cup having claimed 10 points from their opening four matches. They are level on points with Poland, who have played a game more.

Ronald Koeman’s side face Malta and Finland in the latest round of qualifiers. Netherlands would all but secure a place in the finals with two wins and a defeat for Poland in their game with Lithuania.

But Depay’s preparation for those matches will be far from ideal following the delay to his travel plans.

Depay’s passport was stolen in Brazil, where he plays for Corinthians.

It is anticipated Depay will still be able to make the journey to join up with his international team-mates, with the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) saying the former Manchester United, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid forward was “doing everything he can” to make the trip “as soon as possible”.

Koeman said: “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 indeed travel to join us at the training camp as soon as possible.”