Van de Kerkhof brothers criticise Memphis Depay’s role in Dutch team

René and Willy van de Kerkhof have praised the Dutch national team’s performance against Sweden, describing Oranje as playing “like world champions” in a 5-1 victory. The PSV legends also criticised Virgil van Dijk’s captaincy during the match.

The brothers argued that Oranje’s players are “too nice” to each other, calling for harder feedback on the pitch. “You’re standing with eleven enemies on the field,” Willy said. “You have to tell each other the hard truth to win.”

René highlighted the lack of a “killer instinct” in the current squad, comparing it unfavourably to past Dutch teams. “We had Cruijff, Van Hanegem, Soren Lerby—players who wanted to win at all costs,” he said. “That’s missing now.”

The duo praised Cody Gakpo, Crysencio Summerville, and Brian Brobbey as key attacking options, suggesting Memphis Depay’s role is now redundant. René stated, “He had one assist, but that was his only contribution in twenty minutes. I talk to more people who are done with him—except Koeman.”

Willy added, “Let him enjoy his holiday,” in reference to Depay’s future with the national team. The comments come amid ongoing discussions about Oranje’s attacking options ahead of upcoming fixtures.