In the first match of  the Dutch team at EURO 2024, Memphis Depay was ranked as the main starter by coach Ronald Koeman. The striker playing for Atletico Madrid played the highest and played 80 minutes. Memphis Depay launched 4 shots but all failed to Һit the target. In addition, the player playing for Barca also often fails passes, causing the Dutch team’s attacks to pass unfortunately. After that, Memphis Depay had to make way for Wout Weghorst and immediately, his replacement scored in the 83rd minute, sealing an emotional 2-1 victory for the Dutch team.

However, disappointing performance is not the only reason Memphis Depay is criticized. The 30-year-old player continues to receive boos and criticism on social networks from Dutch fans because of the headband on his head with the words “Who cares”. Notably, Memphis Depay was criticized for this headband in the friendly match against Canada (June 7), but he ignored it and still brought it to Germany.

Memphis Depay came out with an impressive headband but did not play well

REUTERS

Memphis Depay’s message to fans

REUTERS

Wout Weghorst came on to replace Memphis Depay and shined, helping the Dutch team get 3 points

REUTERS

According to the explanation of the Dutch media, the headband on Memphis Depay’s head, in addition to preventing sweat, also represents the message that the Dutch striker sent to the fans who criticized him. Memphis Depay is one of the most anticipated players in Dutch football but has continuously performed poorly, forcing him to move to many teams such as Lyon, Man United, Barca and now Atletico Madrid. In addition, focusing too much on body tattoos and all-night parties instead of serious workouts is also criticized. Before the tournament, many Dutch experts also predicted that Memphis Depay would not be on the list for EURO 2024, but surprisingly he was still present.

Coach Ronald Koeman defended his student: “We talked about that headband together. But I don’t think too much about it. We need to talk about EURO 2024, we shouldn’t pay too much attention to that detail. Depay using it is not a big deal.”

Memphis Depay said he will continue to wear the headband if he plays at EURO 2024

REUTERS

Receiving criticism from fans, Memphis Depay also spoke up: “Who cares? – that’s the message on the headband. I feel good about it, this is my new look at EURO 2024. The headband also keeps my head from sweating so it’s very useful. My girlfriend said she liked it, and so did I.”

Memphis Depay also added that despite receiving reactions from fans, he will still use it if he continues to play. “There’s no reason why I shouldn’t use it. I may not score or play well, but that bandage doesn’t affect anything. I will still use it as my highlight at EURO this year,” Memphis Depay continued.