Louis van Gaal does not yet want to say whether Memphis Depay will start against Ecuador on Friday. The 28-year-old attacker from Barcelona played 29 minutes against Senegal, but will most likely play longer against the South Americans. However, during the press conference it was not clear whether that will be from the start signal.
When asked whether Memphis can start against Ecuador, because he is probably fit enough for at least a half, Van Gaal does not want to say anything. “That is actually a question that I cannot answer yet, but I will after the game. I’m sorry, but I’m not going to open my cards. If I’m going to tell who starts and who doesn’t, I’ll have people look at my cards. I also don’t know whether (Enner, ed.) Valencia is playing or not, that saves a sip on a drink.”
Memphis has worked individually towards the World Cup in Amsterdam, but is training with the group in Qatar. Van Gaal therefore gives an insight into the process. “We have always included Memphis in the party forms, for the uncontrolled movements. We now go to the next step. That’s 45 minutes. With an injury like that it is always difficult, when can you start? We have data and after comparisons we decide when he will play for 90 minutes.”
Finally, Van Gaal mentions his star player as one of his greatest assets when comparing it to his 2014 selection. “The average quality with us is higher than in 2014. I am not talking about the big players who were there at the level, Memphis and Frenkie de Jong might tap that. They still have to prove that, though.” Yet he sees enough individual qualities that can make the difference in the current the Dutch. “If Memphis, Bergwijn or Gakpo reach that level… They have the ability, but we’ll see. I hope they will pleasantly surprise me.”