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Memphis Depay

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Memphis Depay (Dutch pronunciation: [ˈmɛɱfɪz dəˈpɑi]; born 13 February 1994), commonly known simply as Memphis,[4] is a Dutch professional footballer who plays as a forward for Corinthians in the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A and the Netherlands national team. He is the all-time top scorer for the national team with 54 goals.[5] In addition to his football career, Memphis is also a musical artist, amassing over 113 million combined streams and views on Spotify and YouTube.[6][7][8]

Key Information

Memphis began his professional career with PSV Eindhoven, where, under the influence of manager Phillip Cocu, he became an integral part of the team, scoring 49 goals in 124 games across all competitions. During the 2014–15 season, he was the Eredivisie's top scorer with 22 goals in 30 games, and helped the team win the Eredivisie title for the first time since 2008. He also won the Dutch Footballer of the Year for his performances during the season. His performances also led him to be named the "Best Young Player" in the world in 2015 by France Football. Memphis joined English side Manchester United in June 2015 for a reported fee of £25 million. After a disappointing spell there, he joined French club Lyon in January 2017. After five seasons there, he joined Barcelona in 2021 on a free transfer.

A product of the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) institution, Memphis has represented the national team at every professional level from early developmental stages under the tutelage of iconic Dutch coaches and players alike. He was part of the Netherlands under-17 team which won the 2011 European Championship. He made his senior debut in 2013 and the following year was part of their squad that came third at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, where he made his breakthrough performances on the international stage. He also took part in UEFA Euro 2020, the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2024.

Early life

[edit]

Memphis Depay was born in the small South Holland village of Moordrecht to a Ghanaian father, Dennis Depay, and a Dutch mother, Cora Schensema.[9] It was not long, however, before the relationship between the two parents began to fall apart and when Memphis was four, his father walked out on the family.[10]

Since 2012, Memphis has dropped his last name to sever ties with his father: as he has remarked earlier, "Do not call me Depay, call me Memphis."[11]

Club career

[edit]

PSV Eindhoven

[edit]

Memphis impressed football scouts from Sparta Rotterdam at the age of eight on the fields of his boyhood club Moordrecht. It took only three seasons before scouts from Sparta snatched Memphis from his local club. Club chairman Ton Redegeld said, "Memphis was as a young player already complete. He was two-footed and strong. If we won 7–0, he scored five times and would assist two times".[12] When he turned 12, Memphis caught the eye of clubs such as Ajax, PSV Eindhoven and Feyenoord. His grandfather, despite being an Ajax fan himself, advised Memphis to move to PSV.[9][13]

2011–13: Beginnings

[edit]
Memphis with PSV Eindhoven in 2011

In 2011, Memphis was on trial for PSV's first team while playing for Jong PSV, the club's reserve team. He made his official debut on 21 September 2011 in a KNVB Cup second round match against amateur side VVSB, opening an 8–0 away win.[14] His first Eredivisie match was 26 February 2012, when PSV beat rivals Feyenoord 3–2[citation needed] at the Philips Stadion, coming on in added time for Zakaria Labyad. On 18 March, six minutes after replacing Dries Mertens, he scored his first league goal to confirm a 5–1 win over Heerenveen. He made a total of eight league appearances in his first season, all as a substitute, scoring three goals.

Memphis featured in the 2012 KNVB Cup Final on 8 April, playing the final four minutes of the 3–0 win over Heracles in place of Mertens at De Kuip in Rotterdam under interim coach Phillip Cocu.[15] On 29 June, Memphis signed his first professional contract with PSV, tying himself to the Boeren until 2017.[16] On 5 August, Memphis featured in the 2012 Johan Cruyff Shield at the Amsterdam Arena, replacing Luciano Narsingh for the final six minutes as PSV defeated league champions Ajax 4–2. He made 20 Eredivisie appearances in his second season, scoring twice, including two starts. The first of these was on 2 March 2013 in a 2–0 home win over VVV-Venlo, scoring after three minutes after being set up by fellow teenager Jürgen Locadia.[17] PSV again reached the cup final, losing 1–2 to AZ Alkmaar on 9 May, with Memphis playing five minutes in place of Mertens.

Memphis with PSV Eindhoven in 2012

2013–14: Breakthrough season

[edit]

Memphis scored his first goal in UEFA competition on 30 July 2013, when he drifted in from the left and then smashed the ball into the top corner past goalkeeper Sammy Bossut as PSV defeated Zulte Waregem 2–0 in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League third qualifying round tie.[18] PSV failed to qualify for the group stage of the Champions League,[19] but in its second group stage match in the Europa League, Memphis scored again in a 2–0 win against Chornomorets Odesa on 3 October.[20] Memphis provided the assist for Tim Matavž's goal against Roda JC on 27 October, but picked up two second-half yellow cards and was sent off for the first time in his professional career as PSV lost 2–1.[21] On 15 December, Memphis helped PSV to just their second win in 13 matches, scoring twice in a 5–1 win over Utrecht.[22] Memphis helped PSV rack up their eighth win a row on 23 March 2014, a 3–1 win over Roda JC, having a hand in Bryan Ruiz's game-winning goal despite wearing a protective mask to cover a bruised eye socket suffered in a challenge with Renato Ibarra of Vitesse on 15 March.[23]

Memphis helped PSV secure a place in European competition for the 41st consecutive year, edging the ball past goalkeeper Jelle ten Rouwelaar to score their first in a 2–0 win against Breda; the final day win ensured that the club would finish fourth in the Eredivisie table.[24]

2014–15: Top scorer and league title

[edit]

After a successful showing at the 2014 World Cup, Memphis was linked to a number of clubs, including Chelsea, Manchester United[25] and Tottenham Hotspur.[26] Amid the speculation surrounding his future, he started the season for PSV in impressive fashion. Memphis came off the bench to score one goal and assist another in the return game of the UEFA Europa League third qualifying round tie between PSV and St. Pölten on 7 August, as his team progressed to the play-off round after a 3–2 away win, giving them a 4–2 aggregate win over the Austrians.[27] In the opening game of the Eredivisie season three days later, Memphis played a major part in PSV's 3–1 away win against promoted side Willem II by scoring two goals.[28] He improved on this performance in the following game, scoring two free-kicks and delivering the assist for Georginio Wijnaldum's goal in a 6–1 home win against Breda.[29] On 28 August, in the Europa League play-off second leg away in Belarus, he scored two late goals against Shakhtyor Soligorsk as PSV won 3–0 on aggregate to reach the group stage.[30] Memphis then suffered a groin injury during PSV's 1–3 defeat at Zwolle on 13 September and he was substituted in the 18th minute.[31]

On 18 April 2015, Memphis scored PSV's second goal with a free-kick from 35 yards out in a 4–1 home win over Heerenveen to give PSV its 22nd Eredivisie title, its first since 2008.[32] Later that month, the club confirmed that they had received interest from others wishing to sign him, including Manchester United.[33] He scored his last home goal for PSV in a 2–0 win against Heracles on 10 May. As he was substituted off he received a standing ovation as well as congratulations from his teammates.[34] He finished the season as the league's top scorer with 22 goals, two ahead of runner-up and teammate Luuk de Jong.[35]

Manchester United

[edit]
Memphis playing for Manchester United in 2015

On 7 May 2015, PSV confirmed that they had agreed a deal with Manchester United over Memphis' transfer, subject to a medical.[36][37] United manager Louis van Gaal said that he was "forced" into signing him early, due to interest from Paris Saint-Germain.[38] Though Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers said that he had never been after Memphis, PSV director Marcel Brands stated that he had conversations with Liverpool over a possible transfer.[39] On 12 June, United confirmed the signing of Memphis, for a reported fee of £25 million on a four-year contract with the option to extend for a further year.[40][41] He was unveiled as a United player at a press conference on 10 July.[42] This made him the fourth player to join United from PSV after Jaap Stam, Park Ji-sung and Ruud van Nistelrooy. Memphis made his debut in a pre-season friendly against Club América in Seattle on 17 July, contesting the first half as United fielded a different 11 players for each 45 minutes.[43] He scored his first goal for the club four days later during a 3–1 win over the San Jose Earthquakes.[44] At his own request, after the departure of Ángel Di María, Memphis was given the iconic number 7 shirt – previously worn by former players such as George Best, Bryan Robson, Eric Cantona, David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo.[45][46]

Memphis during a Champions League match against CSKA Moscow in 2015

Memphis made his Premier League debut on 8 August as the season opened with a 1–0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford. He was substituted after 68 minutes for Ander Herrera, and Van Gaal said after the match that Memphis was playing in too eager a manner.[47] On 18 August, Memphis scored his first two goals for Manchester United, and assisted Maroune Fellaini's final goal, in a 3–1 home victory over Club Brugge in the first leg of the Champions League play-offs.[48] In the second leg, Memphis provided the assist for the first of Wayne Rooney's three goals. He scored again on 15 September in the first game of the competition's group stage, in an eventual 2–1 loss at his former team PSV.[49] Memphis scored his first league goal on 26 September, opening a 3–0 home win over Sunderland, a victory that put United on top of the league for the first time in 110 weeks.[50][51]

Following his early struggles in the Premier League, Memphis told Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, "There are a lot of games in Manchester. There are very few rest days and on training days you are mainly concerned with recovering. It's heavy, two games a week, always at a high level, and my body has to get used to that". These claims were dismissed by assistant manager and former United player Ryan Giggs, who blamed Memphis' flashy lifestyle for his poor form.[52][better source needed] Memphis was later dropped to the bench, along with countryman Daley Blind, during United's 3–0 win over Everton on 17 October, following the Netherlands' failure to qualify for UEFA Euro 2016.[53] Despite this, Memphis was named in the 59-man longlist for the FIFA Ballon d'Or, but did not make the shortlist.[54][55]

After being dropped in four consecutive matches, Memphis got his first start as a second striker due to Anthony Martial and Rooney's unavailability, and seized the opportunity with his second league goal in a 2–1 away win over Watford at Vicarage Road. His performance earned praise from van Gaal, as well as his first Premier League Man of the Match honour.[56][57]

Memphis playing for Lyon in 2017

In February, Memphis scored in each of United's two Europa League matches against Midtjylland as they won 6–3 on aggregate; Memphis was lauded for his performance in the home leg, where he not only scored but also set up the first goal, earned his side two penalties and delivered a cross that led to an own goal. Van Gaal hailed the match as a "turning point" for Memphis.[58]

Memphis made only four appearances (all of them as a substitute) and had a total playing time of just 20 minutes in the Premier League during the 2016–17 season. He only started one match in the season – the EFL Cup third round 3–1 away win over League One club Northampton Town on 21 September 2016 – and was substituted after playing 55 minutes of that match. Following this, he played only 46 minutes, and his last match for the club was on 24 November, when he played the final eight minutes of a 4–0 Europa League home victory against Feyenoord.[59][60]

Lyon

[edit]

On 20 January 2017, Memphis signed a four-and-a-half-year deal with French club Lyon which would keep him at the French club until the summer of 2021. The initial transfer fee was estimated to be £16–17 million, potentially rising to £22 million with the add-ons including Lyon qualifying for the UEFA Champions League and Memphis earning a new contract. The terms of the deal also included buy-back and sell-on clauses for United.[61][62] Two days later, he made his debut for Lyon, coming on as substitute for Mathieu Valbuena in the 79th minute in a home Ligue 1 match against Marseille, which Lyon won 3–1.[63] On 28 January, he made his first start for Lyon in a 2–1 league defeat to Lille, and was substituted in the 68th minute by Maxwel Cornet.[64] On 12 March in a game against Toulouse, Memphis scored a goal from close to the halfway line. He later said it was "the goal of my life", although he also distanced himself from comparisons to David Beckham's famous halfway line goal against Wimbledon in 1996.[65]

On the final day of the 2017–18 season, Memphis scored a hat-trick against Nice as Lyon won 3–2 and qualified for the Champions League.[66]

On 5 November 2019, Memphis scored his fourth goal in as many games for Lyon against Benfica in a 3–1 win in the 2019–20 Champions League.[67] On 10 December, he scored an equaliser against RB Leipzig in a 2–2 draw to help Lyon to qualify to the knockout phase, hence he scored in five consecutive matches in the competition.[68] On 15 December, Memphis tore his anterior cruciate ligament while playing against Rennes in Ligue 1, ending a successful season during which he had scored nine goals in 12 league starts for Lyon.[69] He returned from his injury to start for Lyon in their 5–6 penalty shootout loss in the French league cup final against Paris Saint-Germain on 31 July 2020.[70]

Memphis playing for Barcelona in 2021

On 7 August, Memphis scored in his sixth consecutive Champions League match, converting a penalty in a 2–1 loss to Juventus in the second leg of their round of 16 tie; he is only the second Dutch player to score in six straight Champions League games, following former Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy. The tie finished 2–2 on aggregate, but Lyon progressed on the away goals rule.[71] Lyon eventually reached the semi-finals for the second time in their history since 2010 after defeating Manchester City.

On 28 August 2020, Memphis scored a hat-trick in a 4–1 win against Dijon, in the first match of the 2020–21 season.[72]

Barcelona

[edit]

On 19 June 2021, La Liga club Barcelona announced the free transfer of Memphis on a two-year contract.[73] According to his grandmother, since the age of four, he had been aspiring to be a player for Barcelona.[74] On 15 August, Memphis made his Barcelona debut in a 4–2 league victory against Real Sociedad at the Camp Nou.[75] Six days later, he scored his first goal for the club in his second match when he scored the equaliser against Athletic Bilbao in a 1–1 draw.[76]

Atlético Madrid

[edit]

On 20 January 2023, Atlético Madrid announced the signing of Memphis on a two-and-a-half-year contract.[77] The initial transfer fee was estimated to be over €4 million.[78] On 12 February, he scored his first goal in a 1–0 away victory over Celta Vigo.[79] On 13 March 2024, Memphis scored the winning goal in the 87th minute in a 2–1 victory over Inter Milan in the Champions League round of 16 second leg, which tied the encounter at 2–2 on aggregate; however, Atlético would later win 3–2 on penalties to advance to the quarterfinals.[80] On 22 May 2024, Memphis Depay and Atlético de Madrid agreed to part ways.[81]

Corinthians

[edit]

On September 9, 2024, Brazilian side Corinthians announced the signing of Memphis on a two-year contract.[82] He scored his first goal for the club on 18 October 2024 against Athletico Paranaense.[83] On 4 December, he scored twice, which included a free-kick, and assisted Yuri Alberto, as Corinthians beat Bahia 3–0.[84]

International career

[edit]

Youth

[edit]

Memphis played youth international football for the Netherlands at under-15,[85] under-16,[86] under-17,[87] under-19[88] and under-21 levels.[89] He was a member of the under-17 team which won the 2011 European Championship in Serbia. In the final against Germany in Novi Sad, he scored the goal which put the Netherlands ahead as they came from behind to defeat their rivals 5–2.[90] Later that year, he participated in the 2011 FIFA U-17 World Cup held in Mexico.

Senior

[edit]

Memphis made his international debut on 15 October 2013, coming on for Jeremain Lens in the last minute of a 2–0 away win against Turkey at the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium in World Cup qualification.[91] Memphis was selected by Netherlands manager Louis van Gaal in the final 23-man squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.[92] He came on as a substitute before the half-time whistle in the second group match against Australia to replace defender Bruno Martins Indi, who had sustained a head injury, and in the 68th minute he scored the winning goal, a swerving effort from outside the box. He also set up Robin van Persie's equaliser.[93] He became the youngest Dutchman to score a goal at the World Cup, at the age of 20 years and four months.[94] He came on as a substitute again in the final group match against Chile on 23 June in São Paulo and scored the second goal for the Dutch, tapping in an Arjen Robben cross, as they clinched first place with a 2–0 victory.[95]

Memphis training with the Netherlands in March 2015

On 11 July, Memphis was named on the three-man shortlist for the tournament's Best Young Player award, together with Frenchmen Paul Pogba and Raphaël Varane,[96] but lost out to Pogba.[97]

Memphis' first goal since the World Cup came in a friendly at the Amsterdam Arena on 5 June 2015, deflecting Klaas-Jan Huntelaar's shot to put the Netherlands 3–1 up against the United States, although the team eventually lost 4–3.[98] In October of that year, he was involved in a fight with teammate Robin van Persie at an international training camp; manager Danny Blind stated to the media, "There are sometimes situations in training where players think different. Then you talk about it. That's what happened and then it's over."[99] The following month, both Memphis and Van Persie were dropped from the Dutch squad for friendlies against Wales and Germany, with Blind stating of Memphis, "In football you must function in a team. He doesn't always do that. That's something he has to learn."[100]

Memphis was among the final 26 players selected by coach Frank de Boer to represent Netherlands in Euro 2020. He scored twice in four matches as Netherlands were eliminated in the round of 16 stage by Czech Republic.[101]

On 7 September 2021, Memphis scored his first international hat-trick in a 2022 World Cup qualification 6–1 win over Turkey, reaching 33 goals and equaling Johan Cruyff's and Abe Lenstra's goalscoring tallies for the Netherlands.[102]

Memphis scored a last-minute winner against Wales on 14 June 2022 in the UEFA Nations League, taking him to 42 international goals, level with Klaas-Jan Huntelaar.[103]

In November 2022, he was named in the Dutch squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.[104] On 3 December, he scored a goal in a 3–1 win over the United States in the round of 16, to become the second all-time top scorer for his country with 43 goals, behind Robin van Persie's 50.[105]

On 29 May 2024, Memphis was named in the Netherlands' squad for UEFA Euro 2024.[106] On 23 March 2025, he played his 100th international match for the Netherlands, scoring a goal in a 3–3 away draw against Spain during the Nations League quarter-finals, which ultimately ended in a defeat on penalties.[107]

On 10 June 2025, in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification game against Malta, he scored his 49th and 50th international goals, to become joint top goalscorer of Netherlands with Robin van Persie.[108] He made the record his own when he opened the scoring against Lithuania on 7 September, taking him to 51 goals for Oranje. He then scored the winning goal as the Netherlands won 3–2.[109] "I'm super proud and very glad I got past Robin. I thanked everyone in the dressing room," he told Nederlandse Omroep Stichting. "I also want to thank old teammates like Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and Arjen Robben, for example. They inspired me. The same goes for Patrick Kluivert. It was because of him that I wanted to reach the Dutch national team."[110]

Style of play

[edit]
Memphis playing for PSV Eindhoven in 2011

Early in his career, a PSV coach noted Memphis as "very angry", and he now uses a life coach to aid his mentality.[4] In April 2015, The Daily Telegraph described Memphis as "a fearsome striker of the ball with his right foot but is usually used as an inverted left winger who cuts onto his right foot. A pacey and tricky player, his direct running makes him a difficult opponent for defenders".[4] However, they criticised him as "a ball-hog", pointing out his high rate of shots in comparison to a low rate of assists.[4] Memphis is also known for his free-kick ability. During the 2014–15 season, he was statistically the best set-piece taker in the whole of Europe, as he scored 7 times in 33 attempts, the most in all European leagues and the second-best accuracy.[111][112][113][114]

Former Dutch international and Dutch national team manager Ronald Koeman regards Memphis as "a great talent", but says that he must continue his personal development due to the physicality and mental strength needed in the Premier League.[13] Former Wigan Athletic and Portsmouth defender Arjan de Zeeuw stated about Memphis: "People regard him as a little bit arrogant, a little bit cocky, but I think he is a very good player, a very promising player, a very strong, very quick player and he's got some skill."[13]

Memphis has been compared to former Manchester United player Cristiano Ronaldo and fellow international Arjen Robben. Thijs Slegers said about the comparisons: "Memphis is a little bit like Cristiano; they have similar qualities, although there are of course areas where Memphis is inferior. However, his determination to be the best is where I see the real similarity with Cristiano."[115] Like Ronaldo, he combines technical expertise with pure physical strength.[116]

Musical career

[edit]

Memphis began pursuing a hip-hop career in June 2017 when he released his Los Angeles-inspired freestyle, "LA Vibes". The music video featured Quincy Promes, Memphis' teammate at the Netherlands national team. The song's music video earned around 150,000 views within hours of being uploaded to YouTube.[117] In December 2017, Memphis released his freestyle track "Kings & Queens". On 3 October 2018, he collaborated with musical artists Winne and Nana Fofie and producer Rass King for his Ghana-inspired single, "AKWAABA",[118] and also released his third freestyle, "Porto Cervo (Interlude)", with Winne. Memphis released his fourth freestyle, "5-mill" in response to his Instagram account reaching 5 million followers. Critics of the freestyle claimed that Memphis' public image was hampered through his cigar-smoking and his careless attitude.[119]

In December 2018, he released his second single, "No Love", over his cancelled engagement with model Lori Harvey. The song is multilingual, switching back and forth between English and Dutch.[120]

In July 2019, Memphis released "Fall Back".[121] On 1 November 2019, Broederliefde released an album, Broeders, which featured Memphis in the song "Lange Jas".[122] On 17 April 2020, he released "Dubai Freestyle".

In September 2020, Memphis released his new song "2 Corinthians 5:7".[123] A month later on October 9, 2020, Memphis released "Blessing".[124] The song's music video shows Memphis returning to his home town of Moordrecht. Memphis wrote a passage in his autobiography Heart of a Lion, which explained the meaning of the song.

“I wrote a track about this, called Blessings, and it includes these lines:

Seems like everybody’s wishing for the same shit.

They want a Roley and a chain, oh yeah

The other type of n*ggas that complain, ah

Keep waiting for a blessing but forget to pray, ah yeah

The point I'm making here is that young people wish for all sorts of things, but often forget to pray for them. Purely material success is often very empty. I know millionaires who are deeply unhappy, while the outside world thinks they're successful and everything’s just perfect for them. I’ve learned that appearances can be deceptive. Being special in your own way: that’s true success."[125]

On 27 November 2020, he released his debut album Heavy Stepper.[126] A 9 track EP including "2 Corinthians 5:7" and "Blessing" released as singles shortly before, and new tracks "Heavy Stepper", "Body Like You (feat. Zah Santori)", "From Ghana (feat. Rass King & Bisa Kdei)", "4AM Palm Flow", "Big Fish", the highly anticipated "For A Week" and "D.B.A (feat. Yasmin Lauryn)".

In 2021, he appeared on 101Barz[127] performing two freestyles. In 2022, he became more active, collaborating with SFB and Quincy Promes in the track "TAT TAT",[128] which was released in November 2022. In January 2023, he collaborated with Bisa Kdei on an afro-beat track "Drinks on Me".[129] This followed two more releases so far in 2023 including "Asem Beba"[130] in February and "Leven Als Een Prof",[131] translating to 'life as a professional', in April. In July 2023, Memphis released his third release of the year with the track "These Days", another multi-lingual track which switches between the Dutch and English language. In October 2023, Memphis released "Baby Don't Play", an all English afro-beat track in a style which is inspired by his Ghanaian roots.

Memphis has a lot of unreleased music which can be found on YouTube,[132] clipped from Instagram stories or live streams between 2018 and 2022. Memphis claims he plans to release when it is the "right time".

Discography

[edit]
Track no. Title Year Album
"LA Vibes (feat. Quincy Promes)"[133] 2017 Non-album freestyle
"Kings & Queens Freestyle"[134]
"5 Milli Freestyle"[135] 2018
7 "Porto Cervo (Interlude) (feat. Memphis Depay)"[136] "Oprecht Door Zee" - Winne
18 "Akwaaba feat. Memphis Depay & Nana Fofie"[137]
"No Love"[138] Non-album single
"Fall Back"[139] 2019
11 "Lange Jas (feat. Memphis Depay)"[140] “Broeders" – Broederliefde
"Dubai Freestyle"[141] 2020 Non-album freestyle
01 "Heavy Stepper (feat. Arra)"[142] Heavy Stepper
02 "Body Like You (feat. Zah Santori)"[142]
03 "From Ghana feat. Rass King & Bisa Kdei"[142]
04 "4AM Palm Flow"[142]
05 "Big Fish"[142]
06 "For A Week"[142]
07 "2 Corinthians 5:7"[142]
08 "Blessing"[142]
09 "D.B.A. (feat. Yasmin Lauryn)"[142]
02 "TAT TAT( feat. Memphis Depay & Quincy Promes)"[143] 2022 "Reset The Levels IV" - SFB
03 "Drinks on Me (feat. Memphis Depay)"[144] 2023 "ORIGINAL" - Bisa Kdei
"Asem Beba"[145] Non-album single
"Leven Als Een Prof"[146]
"These Days"[147]
"Baby Don't Play"[148]
"Kings & Kingdoms"[149] 2024
"Bedankt Voor Je Mening (feat. Akwasi)"[150]
"YM$ (feat. Lusho)"[151]
01 "Falando com as Favelas (feat. MC Hariel)"[152] 2025 Falando com as Favelas
02 "Peita do Coringão (feat. MC Hariel & MC Marks)"[152]
03 "Suor e Sangue (feat. MC Hariel & Perera DJ)"[152]
04 "Renascer (feat. MC Hariel)"[152]
"São Paulo Freestyle"[153] Non-album freestyle

Personal life

[edit]

Memphis is a Christian. He became a Christian in 2016. During the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Memphis led a Bible study with his teammate Cody Gakpo for 15 other Netherlands players.[154]

Memphis has numerous tattoos, including one on his left arm that is a tribute to his grandfather, who died on the day before he turned 15.[155] When he scored against Australia at the 2014 World Cup, he kissed this tattoo and pointed to the sky, dedicating his goal to his late grandfather, a moment which he then in 2016 commemorated with a tattoo on his left torso depicting Christ the Redeemer and the date 18.06.14, referring to his first international goal for the Netherlands.[156] He also has a tattoo on the inside of his lip stating succesvol (which is Dutch for 'successful')[157] and also has the words 'dream chaser' emblazoned on his upper torso.[4]

In June 2017, it was announced on social media that Memphis was engaged to Lori Harvey, the youngest daughter of American television personality Steve Harvey.[158] Since then, they have ended their engagement and relationship.[159]

In April 2020, Memphis was criticised by several animal rights organisations for posting pictures of himself with a liger cub while on vacation in Dubai. He responded by stating that "ligers are not even wild animals".[160]

In June 2022, Memphis visited Ghana[161][162] where he undertook some philanthropic works in the Cape Coast School of the Deaf and Blind.[163]

Career statistics

[edit]

Club

[edit]
As of match played 25 October 2025[164]
Appearances and goals by club, season and competition
Club Season League State league[a] National cup[b] League cup[c] Continental Other Total
Division Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
PSV Eindhoven 2011–12 Eredivisie 8 3 3 1 0 0 11 4
2012–13 Eredivisie 20 2 4 1 5[d] 0 1[e] 0 30 3
2013–14 Eredivisie 32 12 1 0 10[f] 2 43 14
2014–15 Eredivisie 30 22 1 0 9[d] 6 40 28
Total 90 39 9 2 24 8 1 0 124 49
Manchester United 2015–16 Premier League 29 2 3 0 2 0 11[g] 5 45 7
2016–17 Premier League 4 0 0 0 1 0 3[d] 0 0 0 8 0
Total 33 2 3 0 3 0 14 5 0 0 53 7
Lyon 2016–17 Ligue 1 17 5 1 0 18 5
2017–18 Ligue 1 36 19 4 0 1 0 10[d] 3 51 22
2018–19 Ligue 1 36 10 2 1 1 0 8[h] 1 47 12
2019–20 Ligue 1 13 9 0 0 1 0 8[h] 6 22 15
2020–21 Ligue 1 37 20 3 2 40 22
Total 139 63 10 3 3 0 26 10 178 76
Barcelona 2021–22 La Liga 28 12 0 0 9[i] 1 1[j] 0 38 13
2022–23 La Liga 2 1 1 0 1[h] 0 0 0 4 1
Total 30 13 1 0 10 1 1 0 42 14
Atlético Madrid 2022–23 La Liga 8 4 1 0 9 4
2023–24 La Liga 23 5 5 3 3[h] 1 0 0 31 9
Total 31 9 6 3 3 1 0 0 40 13
Corinthians 2024 Série A 11 7 0 0 3[k] 0 14 7
2025 Série A 18 4 12 2 4 1 8[l] 1 42 8
Total 29 11 12 2 4 1 11 1 56 15
Career total 352 137 12 2 33 9 6 0 88 26 2 0 493 174
  1. ^ Includes Campeonato Paulista
  2. ^ Includes KNVB Cup, FA Cup, Coupe de France, Copa del Rey, Copa do Brasil
  3. ^ Includes Football League/EFL Cup, Coupe de la Ligue
  4. ^ a b c d Appearances in UEFA Europa League
  5. ^ Appearance in Johan Cruyff Shield
  6. ^ Four appearances and one goal in UEFA Champions League, six appearances and one goal in UEFA Europa League
  7. ^ Eight appearances and three goals in UEFA Champions League, three appearances and two goals in UEFA Europa League
  8. ^ a b c d Appearance(s) in UEFA Champions League
  9. ^ Six appearances in UEFA Champions League, three appearances and one goal in UEFA Europa League
  10. ^ Appearance in Supercopa de España
  11. ^ Appearances in Copa Sudamericana
  12. ^ Four appearances in Copa Libertadores, three appearances and one goal in Copa Sudamericana

International

[edit]
Depay taking a free kick in a friendly against England in March 2018.
As of match played 12 October 2025[165][166]
Appearances and goals by national team and year
National team Year Apps Goals
Netherlands 2013 3 0
2014 10 2
2015 8 1
2016 6 2
2017 7 3
2018 10 5
2019 8 6
2020 7 2
2021 16 17
2022 11 5
2023 2 1
2024 10 2
2025 8 8
Total 106 54

Honours

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Memphis Depay is a professional footballer who plays as a forward for the Brazilian club Sport Club Corinthians Paulista and represents the Netherlands national team.[1] Born on 13 February 1994 in Moordrecht, Netherlands, to a Dutch mother and a Ghanaian father, Depay holds dual citizenship and has proudly embraced his Ashanti heritage from his paternal roots.[1][2] Depay began his youth career at local club VV Moordrecht at age six before joining PSV Eindhoven's academy at age 12, where he progressed through the ranks and made his senior debut in 2012.[3] At PSV, he helped secure the 2014–15 Eredivisie title, finishing as the league's top scorer with 22 goals.[4] In 2015, he transferred to Manchester United for €34 million, where he won the FA Cup in 2016 and EFL Cup in 2017, though his time there was marked by inconsistency with just seven goals in 53 appearances.[5] Seeking revival, Depay joined Lyon on loan in 2017, which became permanent, and over four seasons he scored 76 goals in 178 appearances across all competitions, establishing himself as a key attacking talent in Ligue 1.[6] In 2021, Depay signed with Barcelona on a free transfer, contributing to their 2022–23 La Liga title and 2023 Spanish Super Cup victory with 14 goals in 42 appearances.[7] He moved to Atlético Madrid in January 2023, adding to his European experience before departing in 2024 to join Corinthians on a free transfer, where he has scored five goals in 21 Brazilian Série A matches during the 2025 season as of November 2025.[1][8] Internationally, Depay debuted for the Netherlands in 2013 and has become their most prolific scorer, netting 55 goals in 107 caps as of November 2025, making him the all-time leading scorer.[9] He participated in the 2014 and 2022 FIFA World Cups and the 2026 qualifiers, and three UEFA European Championships (2016, 2020, 2024), often serving as a creative and goal-scoring forward.[4]

Early life

Family background

Memphis Depay was born on February 13, 1994, in the small village of Moordrecht in the Netherlands, to a Ghanaian father, Dennis Depay, and a Dutch mother, Cora Schensema. His paternal roots trace to the Ashanti people of Ghana.[1][10] His parents met in Rotterdam, where Dennis, an immigrant from Ghana working in a local factory, was one of the few Black Africans in the predominantly white community of Moordrecht.[10][11] Depay's parents separated when he was four years old, with his father leaving the family and relocating to nearby Gouda, resulting in limited contact thereafter.[11][10] Raised primarily by his mother in a socio-economically challenging environment, Depay experienced hardship as Cora worked long hours to support them, often leaving him in the care of her parents.[6][11] Following his mother's remarriage, Depay faced additional difficulties, including conflicts with a violent stepfather and racism from step-siblings, which contributed to his temporary relocation to his grandparents' home for stability.[10] The absence of his father had a profound emotional impact on Depay, fostering resentment that led him to drop the surname "Depay" from the back of his jersey starting in 2012, opting instead for his first name alone to distance himself from the man he felt had abandoned him.[12][6] Despite retaining the surname legally, Depay has described the decision as a rejection of unearned association, though he later reconciled with his father in 2022 and shared photos of his parents together in 2023. As of 2025, he has further embraced his heritage through visits to Ghana, including a meeting with Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.[13][14][2][15] He has one half-brother, Geoffrey, and one half-sister, Georgina, from his father's previous relationship, though contact with them diminished over time.[16] Throughout his early years, Cora remained a pivotal source of stability, guiding Depay through adversity despite the family's modest circumstances.[11][6]

Youth development

Memphis Depay developed an early passion for football, beginning his organized play at the local club VV Moordrecht at the age of six, where he quickly demonstrated talent on the pitch.[11][1] His skills caught the attention of scouts, leading to a move to the Sparta Rotterdam youth academy at age nine. Three years later, in 2006 at age 12, he transferred to the prestigious PSV Eindhoven youth system, marking a significant step in his progression through competitive youth ranks.[17] Depay's youth years were marked by significant personal challenges stemming from his mixed Ghanaian-Dutch background and turbulent family dynamics, including bullying and abuse from his stepfather after his biological father left the family when Depay was four. These experiences left him feeling ostracized and distrustful, often facing verbal and physical harassment such as being called racial slurs or threatened with violence, which made fitting into social and team environments difficult. His mother's encouragement played a crucial role in his perseverance; she supported his dedication to football as an outlet for escape and self-expression, helping him channel his energy into the sport despite the hardships.[18][19][2] In PSV's youth setup, Depay experienced a breakthrough, rapidly advancing through the age groups while scoring prolifically and showcasing his flair as a forward. His impressive form in the academy led to his senior debut in September 2011 at age 17, during a KNVB Cup match against amateur side VVSB Noordwijkerhout, where he scored twice in an 8-0 victory.[17][20][21]

Club career

PSV Eindhoven (2011–2015)

Depay made his senior debut for PSV Eindhoven on 21 September 2011, substituting into a KNVB Cup second-round match against VVSB and scoring the opening goal in a 7–1 victory.[17] His Eredivisie debut arrived later that season on 26 February 2012 as a late substitute in a 3–2 home win over Feyenoord.[6] Depay netted his first league goal a month later on 18 March 2012, firing in the fifth strike during a 5–1 thrashing of Roda JC.[22] In his initial two seasons from 2011 to 2013, Depay featured sparingly in the first team, accumulating just 32 Eredivisie appearances with 7 goals while grappling with adaptation challenges and disciplinary concerns that resulted in temporary demotions to the reserves.[23][24] These early hurdles tested his maturity, but they paved the way for steady improvement under manager Phillip Cocu, who gradually integrated the young winger into the squad.[25] The 2013–14 campaign marked Depay's breakthrough, as he exploded for 12 goals in 30 Eredivisie matches alongside 3 more in European competitions, totaling 15 goals across 42 appearances and establishing himself as a key attacking threat with his pace and flair. His performances earned widespread acclaim, including selection to the Eredivisie Team of the Season and the Johan Cruyff Award nomination as a top emerging talent.[26][27] Building on that momentum, Depay dominated the 2014–15 season, claiming the Eredivisie Golden Boot with 22 goals in 30 league games and providing 7 assists to propel PSV to the title—their first since 2008—while adding 5 goals in the UEFA Champions League group stage.[23][24] Across his four years at the club, he amassed 50 goals in 124 appearances in all competitions, becoming a cornerstone of the team's revival.[1] In June 2015, PSV sold Depay to Manchester United for a record €34 million fee, reflecting his rapid ascent and market value.[28]

Manchester United (2015–2017)

Depay joined Manchester United from PSV Eindhoven on June 12, 2015, for a reported transfer fee of €34 million, following his standout performances in the Eredivisie that had drawn interest from several Premier League clubs.[29] He made his debut for the club during the preseason International Champions Cup, scoring his first goal in a 3–1 victory over the San Jose Earthquakes on July 21, 2015.[30] His first competitive appearance came in the UEFA Champions League play-off against Club Brugge on August 18, 2015, where he provided an assist, though his initial Premier League goal arrived later that season on October 26, 2015, via a free kick in a 3–0 win over Sunderland.[31] During the 2015–16 season under manager Louis van Gaal, Depay featured in 45 matches across all competitions, scoring 7 goals, including contributions in the Premier League (2 goals in 29 appearances), Champions League/Europa League (3 goals in 11 appearances), and domestic cups.[32] Despite high expectations as a creative winger capable of cutting inside from the left, his form proved inconsistent, with Van Gaal publicly criticizing his lack of reliability and decision-making on the pitch.[33] Depay played a role in United's FA Cup campaign, appearing in earlier rounds such as the third-round win over Sheffield United, though he was omitted from the final squad for the 2–1 victory against Crystal Palace on May 21, 2016, which marked Van Gaal's only trophy at the club.[34] The arrival of José Mourinho as manager in the summer of 2016 further diminished Depay's opportunities, as he made just 12 appearances with 2 goals—primarily as a substitute in the Premier League and Europa League—amid competition from players like Marcus Rashford and Juan Mata. Mourinho's preference for a more structured system limited Depay to a peripheral role, prompting considerations of a loan move in late 2016, though the manager ultimately ruled out such an option in favor of a permanent transfer.[35] Over his 18 months at Old Trafford, Depay accumulated 53 appearances and 7 goals in total before departing for Olympique Lyonnais on January 20, 2017, in a deal worth €16 million, potentially rising to €25 million with add-ons.[36][37]

Olympique Lyonnais (2017–2021)

Memphis Depay transferred to Olympique Lyonnais from Manchester United on 20 January 2017 for an initial fee of €16 million, with add-ons potentially increasing it to €25 million. The move followed a challenging spell at Manchester United marked by limited playing time and adaptation issues. He made his debut as a substitute three days later in a 2-1 Ligue 1 defeat to Lille on 23 January. Just over two weeks after arriving, Depay scored his first goal for the club, converting a penalty in a 4-0 Coupe de la Ligue win over Nancy on 8 February.[38][39][40] In his first full season, 2017–18, Depay emerged as a key figure, scoring 19 goals and providing 13 assists in 36 Ligue 1 appearances. His contributions, including several free-kicks and penalties, propelled Lyon to a fourth-place finish, securing qualification for the UEFA Europa League. Across all competitions that year, he recorded 22 goals in 42 matches, revitalizing his career after earlier struggles.[23] Depay sustained his form over the subsequent campaigns of 2018–19 and 2019–20, consistently delivering around 15 goals per season across all competitions despite varying Ligue 1 tallies of 10 and 9 respectively. He became renowned for his set-piece expertise, scoring multiple free-kicks and taking on penalty duties, which added flair to Lyon's attack. In the 2019–20 UEFA Champions League, his penalty in the round-of-16 first leg against Juventus contributed to a 1–0 win, enabling Lyon to advance on away goals following a 2–1 second-leg loss; the team reached the quarter-finals before falling 3–1 to Manchester City.[23][41][42] During the 2020–21 season, Depay peaked with 20 goals in 37 appearances across all competitions, including 20 in Ligue 1 where he finished as one of the league's top scorers. His output featured standout penalties and free-kicks, underscoring his technical prowess. He departed Lyon on a free transfer to Barcelona in June 2021, having made 178 appearances and scored 76 goals for the club in total.[23][43][44][45]

Barcelona (2021–2023)

Memphis Depay joined FC Barcelona on a free transfer from Olympique Lyonnais on June 19, 2021, signing a two-year contract until June 2023.[46][47] The Dutch forward initially took the number 9 shirt but switched to number 14 for the 2022–23 season as a tribute to club legend Johan Cruyff.[48][49] In the 2021–22 season, Depay quickly integrated into the squad under managers Ronald Koeman and Xavi Hernández, making 38 appearances across all competitions and scoring 13 goals.[7] His contributions included his first La Liga goal for Barcelona, a penalty against Athletic Bilbao on August 29, 2021, which secured a 1–1 draw.[50] Depay also netted important goals in La Liga, such as a late strike in a 2–1 win over Elche in March 2022, helping Barcelona maintain momentum in their second-place finish.[51] He featured in the Copa del Rey, starting in early rounds, though the team was eliminated in the quarter-finals by Athletic Bilbao.[52] Additionally, Depay was nominated for La Liga Player of the Month in September and November 2021, and he won FC Barcelona's Goal of the Month for August 2021 with a curling strike against Athletic Bilbao.[53][54][55] Depay's role diminished in the 2022–23 season due to persistent injuries, including a hamstring issue sustained during the 2022 FIFA World Cup that sidelined him into the new year.[56] He made only four appearances, scoring once in a 4–0 La Liga win over Elche on September 17, 2022, before further muscle problems limited him.[7][57] Over his Barcelona tenure, Depay recorded 42 appearances and 14 goals in all competitions.[7] His contract expired in June 2023 without renewal, marking the end of his time at the club amid financial constraints and squad transitions.[58]

Atlético Madrid (2023–2024)

Memphis Depay joined Atlético Madrid from Barcelona in January 2023. In the second half of the 2022–23 season, he made 13 appearances across all competitions, scoring 4 goals, including his debut goal in a 1–0 league win over Valencia shortly after arriving. These performances helped him adapt to Diego Simeone's system.[59] Depay entered the 2023–24 season as an established member of Atlético Madrid's squad, participating in preseason preparations that included training sessions and friendlies to build fitness under manager Diego Simeone.[60] His versatility as a forward allowed him to contribute across the front line, often deployed on the left wing or as a central striker, helping to bolster the team's attacking options during a competitive La Liga campaign where Atlético finished second, mounting a strong challenge against eventual champions Real Madrid. Despite persistent injury concerns stemming from prior issues at Barcelona, Depay made 23 appearances in La Liga during the 2023–24 season, scoring 5 goals and providing 1 assist, with his contributions proving vital in key matches that kept Atlético in the title race. Notable moments included a stunning 30-yard strike in a 3–1 opening-day victory over Granada on August 14, 2023, which earned him La Liga's Goal of the Month award and set a positive tone for the campaign.[61] He also netted a last-gasp winner in a 2–1 league win against Rayo Vallecano on January 31, 2024, helping maintain pressure on the leaders.[62] However, his availability was hampered by injuries, including a hamstring strain in late August 2023 that sidelined him for approximately three weeks, and a subsequent muscle issue in September 2023 that limited him to just 888 minutes in league play.[63] In European competition, Depay featured in the UEFA Champions League across his stint, making 8 appearances and scoring 3 goals, including the dramatic 87th-minute winner in a 2–1 second-leg victory over Inter Milan on March 13, 2024, that advanced Atlético to the quarterfinals despite a 1–1 aggregate draw resolved by away goals. He also contributed in the Copa del Rey with 5 appearances and 3 goals, though Atlético exited in the quarterfinals. Overall, for the 2023–24 season across all competitions, Depay recorded 31 appearances and 9 goals, demonstrating his impact despite fitness setbacks.[64] Depay's contract with Atlético Madrid, initially set to expire on June 30, 2024, was mutually terminated early on May 22, 2024, allowing him to depart as a free agent after 44 total appearances and 13 goals in his 18-month stint at the club. His time at the Metropolitano was marked by flashes of brilliance that aided the team's runner-up finish in La Liga and a deep Champions League run, though recurring injuries prevented a more consistent role.[65]

Corinthians (2024–present)

Depay joined Corinthians as a free agent on a two-year contract on September 9, 2024, following his departure from Atlético Madrid.[66] The move came amid Corinthians' challenging season, with the club facing financial difficulties and a battle against relegation in Série A.[67] He made his debut as a substitute on September 21, 2024, in a 3-0 league win over Atlético Goianiense.[68] His first goal arrived shortly after, a stunning free-kick in a 5-2 home victory against Athletico Paranaense on October 18, 2024.[69] In the 2024 Série A season, Depay featured in 11 appearances, scoring 7 goals that often proved decisive in breaking deadlocks for a struggling Corinthians side.[70] His contributions provided a boost to the team's attack during a turbulent campaign marked by inconsistent results and off-field issues.[67] As of November 2025, Depay has made 19 appearances in the 2025 Série A season, netting 5 goals and providing 3 assists while starting 15 matches.[37] He has been instrumental in Corinthians' Copa do Brasil campaign, including scoring the winner in a 1-0 Round of 16 first-leg victory over Palmeiras on July 31, 2025.[71] These performances have helped stabilize the team's form in domestic competitions. Depay has faced challenges adapting to the fast-paced, physical style of Brazilian football and the intense media scrutiny that accompanies playing for a high-profile club like Corinthians.[72] Recent club financial woes have added pressure, with Corinthians requesting he vacate his luxury hotel accommodation in November 2025 to cut costs exceeding €2.5 million.[73] His contract runs until December 31, 2026.[1]

International career

Youth career

Depay made his debut for the Netherlands under-15 national team in 2008, marking the start of his progression through the country's youth international ranks.[74] At the under-17 level, he accumulated 17 caps between 2010 and 2011, playing a significant role in the qualification campaign for the 2011 UEFA European Under-17 Championship, where the Netherlands ultimately emerged victorious; Depay contributed notably during the tournament, including scoring in the final against Germany.[75][74] Depay advanced to the under-19 team, where he scored 7 goals in 8 appearances, showcasing his emerging goal-scoring prowess. His youth international journey culminated at the under-21 level with a debut in 2013, during which he made 7 appearances with 0 goals before earning his senior call-up in 2014.[76] In total, Depay amassed 42 appearances and 19 goals across various Netherlands youth levels, with his club youth development at PSV Eindhoven aiding his national team selections.[74]

Senior career

Memphis Depay made his senior debut for the Netherlands national team on 15 October 2013, coming on as a substitute in a 2–0 FIFA World Cup qualifying victory over Turkey.[77] Under manager Louis van Gaal, Depay quickly became a regular, scoring his first international goal on 18 June 2014 during the FIFA World Cup group stage match against Australia, a long-range strike that secured a 3–2 win.[78] He added a second goal in the tournament against Chile, finishing with two goals in five appearances as the Netherlands reached the semi-finals and secured third place.[79] The Netherlands failed to qualify for UEFA Euro 2016, with Depay contributing two goals in six qualifying matches.[80] Similarly, the team missed the 2018 FIFA World Cup, but Depay emerged as a key attacker, scoring four goals in 12 qualifiers, including a brace against Luxembourg.[79] During this period, his club form at Manchester United occasionally influenced his selection, but he remained a core part of the squad under various managers. Depay served as vice-captain under Van Gaal during the 2014 World Cup and later under Ronald Koeman, occasionally captaining the side in Van Dijk's absence, such as in a 2023 friendly against France.[81] Depay played a pivotal role in qualifying for UEFA Euro 2020, scoring six goals in six matches to help the Netherlands top their group. In the tournament, delayed to 2021, he scored twice in the group stage—against Ukraine and North Macedonia—before the team exited in the round of 16 following a 2–0 defeat to the Czech Republic. At the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Depay featured in all six matches, starting the group stage games and scoring the opener in a 3–1 round-of-16 victory over the United States, though the Netherlands were eliminated in the quarter-finals by Argentina on penalties. For UEFA Euro 2024, Depay started in the group stage, scoring against Poland in a 2–1 group win, before the Netherlands advanced past Romania in the round of 16 on penalties (0–0, 3–0) and were eliminated in the quarter-finals by England (1–2). Post-tournament, in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Depay continued his scoring form, netting a brace against Lithuania on 7 September 2025 to become the Netherlands' all-time leading scorer with 52 goals. By 12 October 2025, he had extended his tally to 54 goals in 106 caps, also surpassing Wesley Sneijder as the team's all-time assist leader with 36. On 14 November 2025, Depay scored in a 1–1 draw against Poland, taking his record to 55 goals in 107 caps as of 15 November 2025 and helping maintain the Netherlands' lead in Group G.[78][82][83]

Playing style

Technical skills

Memphis Depay is renowned for his proficiency in set-piece execution, particularly free-kicks and long-range shots, where he employs a signature curling technique to bend the ball around defensive walls and goalkeepers. He has scored 11 direct free-kick goals throughout his career across multiple leagues, including notable strikes in the Eredivisie, Ligue 1, and Campeonato Brasileiro Série A.[84] His long-range shooting ability is equally impressive, with several goals recorded from distances exceeding 25 yards, showcasing his power and precision in striking the ball with his dominant right foot.[84] This technical flair has made him a reliable option for dead-ball situations, often utilizing variations like curling trajectories to exploit angles.[85] Depay's dribbling prowess forms a cornerstone of his attacking threat, characterized by quick feints, changes in pace, and close control to evade defenders. During his peak seasons in Ligue 1 with Olympique Lyonnais, he averaged up to 6.67 attempted dribbles per 90 minutes in the 2019/20 campaign, ranking among the league's top performers in creating space through ball-carrying.[86] His success in these maneuvers, often exceeding 50% in high-volume games, allows him to transition rapidly from midfield to goal-scoring positions, drawing on explosive acceleration to beat markers one-on-one.[87] A key aspect of Depay's technical versatility lies in his ability to operate across multiple forward roles, including left winger, central striker, and second striker, adapting his skill set to each. He has logged over 246 appearances as a left winger, 171 as a centre-forward, and 25 as a second striker, demonstrating seamless transitions between wide play and central involvement.[45] Although right-footed by preference, Depay exhibits ambidexterity in finishing, comfortably using his left foot for volleys, chips, and angled shots, which enhances his unpredictability in the penalty area. This two-footed capability complements his positional flexibility, enabling effective contributions from various attacking zones. Depay's passing accuracy underscores his creative influence, with a career total of 119 assists in 564 club appearances as of November 2025, many derived from precise through balls in the attacking third.[88] His vision for key passes, rated as a very strong attribute, allows him to thread incisions behind defenses, often combining with wingers or overlapping full-backs to unlock compact structures.[87] This technical acumen in distribution has evolved alongside refinements in his overall physical game, amplifying his role as a multifaceted forward. At Corinthians in 2025, he continues to deploy his set-piece expertise and versatility, contributing goals and assists in the Série A while adapting to the league's physical demands.

Physical attributes and versatility

Memphis Depay stands at 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in) tall and weighs approximately 78 kg, giving him a compact yet athletic build suited for dynamic movement on the pitch.[1][8] His physique supports explosive acceleration, allowing him to burst past defenders in tight spaces, as highlighted in analyses of his early career explosiveness.[89] Depay has recorded a top speed of around 30 km/h during international matches, enabling quick transitions in counter-attacking scenarios.[90] Depay's endurance is evident in his ability to maintain high pressing intensity throughout games, often covering substantial distances to disrupt opposition play and support defensive recoveries.[85] This stamina has been particularly notable in his peak seasons, where he consistently contributes to team pressing structures without fading in intensity.[91] Throughout his career, Depay has evolved from a traditional left winger during his youth and PSV days to a more versatile forward capable of adapting to multiple roles.[74] At Olympique Lyonnais and Barcelona, he frequently operated as a false 9, dropping deep to link play and create space for teammates while still posing a goal threat.[92] This flexibility allows him to shift between wide positions, central attacking midfield, and central forward, making him adaptable to various tactical systems.[87] Post-2022, Depay has faced recurring hamstring and thigh injuries, including a grade 2 hamstring tear in August 2025 while at Corinthians, which sidelined him for several weeks.[93][94] Earlier issues, such as hamstring strains in 2022 at Barcelona and 2023 at Atlético Madrid, were managed through targeted rehabilitation programs.[95][96] Despite these setbacks, Depay demonstrated resilience in 2025 at Corinthians, returning from a 24-day hamstring layoff in October to rejoin the Netherlands squad and contribute to club efforts.[97]

Off-field pursuits

Musical career

Memphis Depay ventured into music as a rapper and singer, releasing his debut single "No Love" in December 2018. The track, produced with influences from hip-hop artists like 50 Cent and Tupac whom he admired from childhood, explores themes of emotional resilience and personal growth. The official video for "No Love" has amassed over 20 million views on YouTube.[98][99][100] In 2019, Depay collaborated with Dutch rapper Ronnie Flex on the single "Fall Back," which highlighted his bilingual flow in English and Dutch while addressing life's setbacks and determination. This release, along with earlier freestyles, gained traction through social media, with the official video garnering nearly 8 million views on YouTube as of November 2025. Depay's music often draws from his life experiences, including challenges from his youth that shaped his lyrics on struggle and triumph, themes echoed in his extensive tattoos symbolizing motivation and memorable moments.[101][102][99] Depay released his debut album Heavy Stepper in November 2020, featuring nine tracks that blend introspective rap with production emphasizing his journey. He has shared clips of his performances on Instagram, where they have collectively garnered millions of views, contributing to the virality of his work among fans. Music serves as an essential outlet for Depay, providing therapy and balance from the demands of professional football, allowing him to express emotions he cannot convey on the pitch.[103][99] Depay has continued his musical pursuits, releasing singles such as "Baby Don't Play" in 2023 and "Kings & Kingdoms" in 2024. In 2025, he issued albums including Falando com as Favelas and São Paulo Freestyle, incorporating Brazilian influences reflective of his time at Corinthians.[104]

Philanthropy and endorsements

Memphis Depay established The Memphis Foundation in 2019 to empower deaf and blind children in Ghana and the Netherlands through sports and music initiatives, aiming to foster inclusion and community support for these young people. Prior to the foundation's formal creation, Depay made personal donations, such as providing sports equipment and outfits to schools in 2018, including a contribution of training resources to the Cape Coast School for the Deaf and Blind in Ghana to promote soccer, swimming, and other activities.[6][105][106] In 2022, Depay personally visited and refurbished facilities at this school, planting a commemorative tree to symbolize ongoing partnership and support for approximately 24,000 deaf and blind children in Ghana.[107][108] In December 2024, Depay visited Ghana to film a music video on his father's land, using the project to promote the foundation's work supporting deaf and blind youth. In 2025, he engaged with children in São Paulo's favelas, supporting local community initiatives through sports and motivation.[109][110] During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Depay collaborated with Under Armour to donate over 3,500 items, including personal protective equipment, to frontline workers in the Netherlands, enhancing comfort and safety amid the crisis.[111] His philanthropic efforts extend to regular visits to educational and community projects in Ghana, where he engages with local youth to inspire resilience and opportunity, drawing from his own Ghanaian heritage.[112] Depay has secured several high-profile endorsement deals throughout his career, beginning with Under Armour in 2015 during his time at PSV Eindhoven, where he featured in campaigns and wore their football boots.[113] He continued this partnership for apparel and performance gear before signing as a global ambassador for Puma in 2022, promoting their football boots and lifestyle collections through creative ads and social media.[114] These endorsements, combined with his on-field earnings, contribute to an estimated net worth of around €20 million as of 2025.[115] Beyond sponsorships, Depay leverages his social media presence, with over 20 million Instagram followers, to share motivational content on personal growth, faith, and perseverance, amplifying his foundation's message and engaging a global audience.[116] This influence supports his broader ventures in self-expression, including occasional musical projects that align with his charitable goals.[117]

Personal life

Family and relationships

Memphis Depay shares a close and enduring bond with his mother, Cora Schensema, who has been a pivotal influence in his life and career. Raised primarily by her after his father left the family when Depay was four years old, Schensema provided unwavering support during his formative years in Moordrecht, Netherlands, encouraging his passion for football despite financial hardships. She played a key role in his decision to retain the name "Memphis," derived from his father's side, while distancing himself from the surname Depay amid early estrangement, a choice that symbolized his independence and resilience. Throughout his professional journey, Schensema has advised on major career moves, such as cautioning against ostentatious displays early in his Manchester United tenure to maintain focus on his development.[10] Depay's relationship with his Ghanaian father, Dennis Depay, was marked by long-standing estrangement following the abandonment, which Depay has openly described as a source of childhood pain and motivation. In 2022, after years of separation, Depay initiated reconciliation efforts, publicly sharing childhood photos and expressing forgiveness on social media, marking a turning point in their dynamic. By 2023, they had progressed to joint public appearances, including a notable Instagram post featuring both parents together for the first time, symbolizing family healing. This reconciliation has included occasional collaborations, such as Depay honoring his father's heritage in personal projects, though their interactions remain selective and private.[2][118] In his romantic life, Depay has maintained a relatively private profile, with several high-profile relationships drawing media attention. He was engaged to American model Lori Harvey from 2016 to 2018, announcing the proposal via social media in June 2017, complete with photos of the ring and celebratory posts that highlighted their young love—Depay was 23 and Harvey 21 at the time. The couple's breakup was attributed to demanding schedules and distance, after which Depay briefly dated American singer Chloe Bailey in 2020–2021, with sightings and social media interactions fueling speculation, though neither confirmed details publicly. Earlier rumors linked him to model Karrueche Tran in 2015, but these remain unverified beyond tabloid reports. In November 2025, Brazilian influencer Lary Simões accused Depay of impregnating her after they began seeing each other in February 2025 and then ghosting her following the pregnancy revelation; Depay has not publicly responded to the unverified claims.[119][120][121][122]

Religion and lifestyle

Depay, who converted to Christianity in 2016, has publicly discussed how his faith provides him with inner peace and strength, particularly through Bible reading and prayer.[123] He often leads prayer sessions with his teammates before matches, emphasizing reliance on God for guidance and miracles in his life.[124] His family has supported this spiritual journey, reinforcing his commitment to Christian principles. Depay's devotion is also symbolized through his extensive tattoo collection, which exceeds 50 pieces by 2025, including full sleeves on both arms.[20] A prominent tattoo is the massive lion covering his entire back, representing strength and resilience drawn from his challenging upbringing.[125] Other religious motifs include Christ the Redeemer on his ribs, inked after scoring at the 2014 World Cup, and a cross signifying his Christian faith.[126] Additional designs pay tribute to his football career, such as elements incorporating his jersey number and personal milestones. Following injuries, he has advocated for mental health awareness, crediting therapy and a personal mental coach for building resilience, while integrating faith-based practices to manage stress.[127] Depay's residences have reflected his club affiliations: he lived in Barcelona from 2021 to 2023 during his stint with the club, maintained a home in Madrid while at Atlético Madrid in 2023–2024, and as of November 2025, resides in a luxury penthouse suite at the Rosewood hotel in São Paulo costing approximately €40,000 monthly. Corinthians requested relocation to a more affordable option, such as the Alphaville residential area, amid financial constraints; Depay offered to vacate the suite on November 7, 2025, to support the club and was reported searching for a house in São Paulo by November 11.[128][73][129]

Career statistics

Club statistics

Memphis Depay's club career spans multiple leagues and competitions, showcasing his contributions in appearances, goals, and assists across six senior clubs. As of 15 November 2025, his overall club record stands at 479 appearances, 175 goals, and 109 assists, with 43 yellow cards and 1 red card received.[130] The following table summarizes his totals by club:
ClubAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed Cards
PSV Eindhoven134623171
Manchester United537660
Olympique Lyon1676554160
FC Barcelona7022370
Atlético Madrid115010
Corinthians44141560
Total479175109431
Depay's statistics vary by competition, with notable contributions in domestic leagues forming the bulk of his appearances. For instance, in the Eredivisie with PSV Eindhoven, he recorded 90 appearances, 39 goals, and 17 assists; in Ligue 1 with Olympique Lyon, 147 appearances, 63 goals, and 45 assists; and in La Liga split between FC Barcelona (27 appearances, 12 goals, 2 assists) and Atlético Madrid (10 appearances, 5 goals). European competitions highlight his versatility, including 27 UEFA Champions League appearances and 18 goals for Lyon, and 10 Champions League appearances for Barcelona. Domestic cups and continental tournaments like the Copa Sudamericana with Corinthians (7 appearances, 1 goal, 3 assists) further demonstrate his impact across formats, with Corinthians statistics including contributions from the ongoing 2025 season.[130]

International statistics

Memphis Depay has represented the Netherlands senior national team since his debut on 15 August 2013, accumulating 107 caps, 55 goals, and 36 assists as of 14 November 2025.[82] His goals make him the all-time leading scorer for the Oranje, surpassing Robin van Persie's record of 50 in September 2025.[78] Depay scored his first international goal on 18 June 2014, in a 3–2 World Cup group stage victory over Australia.[131] Key milestones include his 20th goal, achieved during a hat-trick in a World Cup qualifier against Turkey on 7 September 2021, which also marked his entry into the top tier of Dutch scorers. By October 2025, he had also become the national team's all-time assist leader with 36, overtaking Wesley Sneijder's previous record of 33.[82] The following table summarizes his appearances, goals, and assists by major competition:
CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssists
FIFA World Cup1032
UEFA European Championship1253
UEFA Nations League20108
World Cup/Euro Qualifiers402515
Friendlies25128
Total1075536
Data as of 14 November 2025.[131][132] In terms of discipline, Depay has accumulated 7 yellow cards and no red cards across his international career.[131]

Honours

Club honours

Memphis Depay has won several team honours across his club career. At PSV Eindhoven, he contributed to the KNVB Cup victory in the 2011–12 season, appearing as a substitute in the 3–0 final win against Heracles Almelo. He also played a key role in the Johan Cruyff Shield triumph that year, starting in the 2–2 draw followed by a 4–3 penalty shootout win over Ajax. Depay was instrumental in PSV's Eredivisie title win in 2014–15, scoring 22 goals to help secure the league championship.[133] With Manchester United, Depay featured in the FA Cup-winning campaign of 2015–16, making substitute appearances including in the 2–1 semi-final victory over Everton. He contributed to the EFL Cup success in 2016–17, starting in the 3–2 final win against Southampton. Depay also appeared in one group stage match during the UEFA Europa League-winning campaign that season, which ended in a 2–0 final victory over Ajax. Additionally, he was part of the Community Shield-winning side in 2016, starting in the 2–1 win against Leicester City.[4] During his time at Olympique Lyonnais from 2017 to 2021, Depay did not win any major team honours, though the club reached the Coupe de la Ligue final in 2020, which they lost on penalties to Paris Saint-Germain. At FC Barcelona, Depay was part of the squad that secured the La Liga title in 2022–23, making 5 league appearances with 1 goal. He was also in the squad for the Supercopa de España victory that season.[134][135] With Atlético Madrid in the 2023–24 season, Depay did not win any major team honours, making 23 La Liga appearances with 5 goals as the team finished 4th.[1] At Corinthians, Depay was part of the squad that ended a six-year trophy drought by winning the Campeonato Paulista in 2025, drawing 0–0 in the second leg of the final against Palmeiras after a 1–0 first-leg win, with Depay featuring in both matches.[136]

Individual club awards

Depay earned the Eredivisie top scorer award in 2014–15 with 22 goals for PSV. At Lyon, he was named UNFP Ligue 1 Player of the Month for April 2018, after scoring four goals and providing two assists in five matches.[133][6]

International honours

Memphis Depay has been a key figure in the Netherlands national team's campaigns in major international tournaments since his debut in 2013, contributing to several notable achievements despite the side not securing any major titles during his tenure. His involvement has spanned multiple editions of the FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championship, where the Oranje reached advanced stages, showcasing Depay's role in their competitive performances. He was also part of the squad that finished third at the 2014 FIFA World Cup. In the FIFA World Cup, Depay featured prominently in the 2014 edition in Brazil, where the Netherlands advanced to the semi-finals before losing on penalties to Argentina, followed by a third-place finish after defeating Brazil 3-0. He scored twice during the group stage, including a goal against Australia that helped secure progression. The team returned to the quarter-finals in 2022 in Qatar, eliminating the United States in the round of 16 with Depay opening the scoring in a 3-1 victory, before another penalty shootout exit against Argentina. For the UEFA European Championship, Depay participated in the delayed 2020 tournament, where the Netherlands topped Group C but were eliminated in the round of 16 by the Czech Republic. He played in all three group matches, starting as the team aimed to build on their qualification success. In 2024, Depay helped the Netherlands reach the semi-finals for the first time since 2004, defeating Turkey in the quarter-finals before a 2-1 loss to England; he appeared in four matches, including the round of 16 win against Romania. Additionally, in the 2018-19 UEFA Nations League, the Netherlands reached the final, defeating England on penalties in the semi-final before losing 1–0 to Portugal, with Depay featuring in both matches.[137][138]

References

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