AMSTERDAM, Netherlands – Dutch television personality Noa Vahle expressed disbelief on Monday following a column published by veteran football analyst Wim Kieft, suggesting a fully fit Memphis Depay could compete at the level of Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Kylian Mbappé. The reaction unfolded during a segment on the show De Oranjezomer, sparking a wider conversation about Depay’s potential impact on the Netherlands national team.
Kieft’s column, appearing in De Telegraaf, centered on Depay’s importance to the Dutch squad, particularly given his recent injury absence. Kieft argued that the Netherlands lacks attacking firepower comparable to other top nations – specifically mentioning France (Mbappé), England (Kane), and Argentina (Messi) – and that a healthy Depay could bridge that gap. He posited that Depay, when at his best, could “challenge the level” of these global superstars.
Vahle’s response was immediate and visibly surprised. “I am very confused,” she stated on air. “We were just in makeup, and Wim Kieft’s column in De Telegraaf came online. The headline was: a top-fit Memphis Depay is competing with the level of Ronaldo, Messi, and Mbappé…”
She continued, questioning the basis of Kieft’s assessment. “I thought, ‘Wim hasn’t been drinking for a long time, so that can’t be it.’ Valentijn [Driessen] writes those columns for Wim. Then I thought, ‘guys, really?’” Vahle added that she believes even Depay himself would acknowledge the comparison is a significant stretch.
The timing of the discussion is particularly relevant as Depay recovers from an injury that kept him out of recent international matches against Norway. Although his availability for upcoming fixtures remains uncertain, Kieft’s column highlights the perceived importance of his presence in the Netherlands attack. The debate underscores the team’s reliance on Depay’s individual brilliance to unlock defenses, especially in tight matches where space is limited.
Kieft’s analysis wasn’t solely focused on Depay’s strengths. He too offered criticism of other Dutch attacking options, specifically questioning the hype surrounding Brian Brobbey’s performances with Sunderland. Kieft reportedly deemed Brobbey’s statistics “overrated,” reinforcing his belief that Depay remains the most logical focal point for the Netherlands’ attack.
This isn’t the first time Depay’s potential has been a subject of debate. Throughout his career, the 32-year-old forward has demonstrated flashes of brilliance, but injuries have often hampered his ability to consistently perform at the highest level on major international stages. The question remains whether he can stay fit and deliver on Kieft’s lofty expectations when the Netherlands compete in future tournaments.
The discussion surrounding Depay’s capabilities also speaks to a broader challenge facing the Netherlands national team: finding consistent goal-scoring threats beyond their star player. While the team possesses talented midfielders and defenders, a reliable source of goals has often been elusive. The reliance on Depay, is understandable, but also raises concerns about the team’s overall attacking depth.
For Dutch fans, the debate is a familiar one. The national team has a history of producing technically gifted players, but often struggles to translate that talent into consistent success. Depay represents a key piece of the puzzle, and his fitness and form will undoubtedly be crucial to the Netherlands’ fortunes in the coming months and years.
The next confirmed checkpoint for the Netherlands national team is the upcoming international break in June, where they will participate in friendly matches as preparation for the European Championship qualification campaign. Depay’s participation in these matches will be closely monitored, as will his overall fitness level.
What are your thoughts on Wim Kieft’s comparison? Do you suppose Memphis Depay can reach the level of Messi, Ronaldo, and Mbappé? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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