Xavi Hernández lauds Depay’s maturity while dropping him from squad

After a turbulent week for striker Memphis Depay, new Netherlands (Holanda) coach Xavi Hernández issued a public commendation, even as he omitted the 32‑year‑old from his inaugural squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League (Liga) fixtures. The coach praised Depay’s maturity and reaction to the situation, signalling that the door remains open despite the exclusion.

Squad selection and upcoming fixtures

The first‑team list will cover four UEFA Nations League (Uefa) matches against Germany, Serbia, Greece and Serbia again. The games are scheduled for 24 and 27 September and for 1 and 4 October respectively.

Memphis Depay, who plays for Corinthians, was not called up despite being one of the most experienced and highest‑scoring figures in the Netherlands’ history. His absence sparked immediate questions about the new manager’s priorities.

Personal ties and public praise

Xavi Hernández noted that his friendship with the striker added an extra layer of difficulty to the decision. The two shared 26 matches at Barcelona between the end of 2021 and the start of 2023, recording 15 wins, four draws and seven defeats.

“The doors are open,” Hernández said, stressing that not being selected now does not close future opportunities for any player.

He added, “The hardest decision perhaps was talking with Memphis. I have a good relationship with him, and he was amazing. His reaction was amazing, with a lot of maturity. He understood everything. I have great respect for Memphis, but I want to say the doors are open for all players. The door is not closed for Memphis, nor for any other player.”

Photo (Foto) by Rodrigo Coca / Agency Corinthians / Jogada10 accompanied the statement, which arrived shortly after a week described as turbulent for the attacker.