Netherlands’ star player Memphis Depay will miss the World Cup qualifier against Malta on Thursday due to passport issues.
Depay, the country’s all-time top scorer with 52 goals, had his passport stolen in Brazil, where he plays for Corinthians.
The Ghanaian-born Dutch international attempted to board a flight to join his teammates without a passport, but was unable to travel.
“I’ll be in the Netherlands by 9:30 on Tuesday morning,” Depay reportedly said, as he will be flying on an emergency passport. Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman expressed his disappointment, saying, “This is unfortunate, primarily for Memphis, but also for us. You naturally want to start your international preparations with a full squad.” Koeman added that Depay won’t start against Malta but will likely feature against Finland on Sunday.
The Netherlands currently top Group G with 10 points, ahead of Poland on goal difference with a game in hand.
Depay’s absence will be a significant blow to the Dutch team.
