'I don't know the Quincy you describe' - Memphis Depay insists ex-Ajax star Promes 'remains my friend' after six-year prison sentence for cocaine smuggling, despite advice from Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman

In the tumultuous world of professional football, relationships often transcend the boundaries of the game itself. Such is the case with Depay, who has publicly affirmed his friendship with Promes despite the latter being convicted by an Amsterdam court for his alleged involvement in smuggling over 1,350 kilograms of cocaine. The severity of the charges has led to Dutch authorities seeking his extradition from the United Arab Emirates, where he has reportedly been apprehended.

Amid these legal proceedings, Depay, a fellow footballer and friend of Promes, found himself embroiled in controversy after sharing photos of their past holiday together on Instagram. Despite facing criticism for his actions, Depay defended his decision and instead emphasised his loyalty to his friend.

Speaking to reporters, Depay said: "We are football players and we post a lot of content. At least I do. It was just a photo on holiday, I didn't see the harm in it. I understand that the outside world views this differently and I take responsibility for that. I have friends, when you go out to eat together you don't know exactly what they do and don't do. Or that you agree with everything someone does. You don't know the Quincy Promes I know. I don't know the Quincy Promes that you know or describe.”

When told that the facts were clear concerning Promes, Memphis replied: “I don't know. I don't know that Quincy. But I don't come from an easy background. Once people have read my book, they will understand that. I have a brother who was incarcerated for ten years. Quincy is a famous person, but my brother is not. But I never get questions about my brother. I'm also friends with Dani Alves and Benjamin Mendy. I've never had any questions about that before.”

However, not everyone shares Depay's perspective on the matter. National team coach Ronald Koeman cautioned against commenting on Promes' situation, advising Depay to exercise restraint on social media. "You can sometimes make it easier for yourself by not doing those kinds of things. They are friends and it is conceivable that he would do it, but it is of course a delicate matter."

Depay mentioned that he would take up the issue with Koeman and clear the air.

“I'm going to talk to the coach about it," he said. "We remain friends and I won't drop friends, but that doesn't mean you support someone in everything. That post was not to provoke and show 'Look: I'm here with Quincy'. I was on vacation and I went to dinner with friends. Pogba was also sitting next to me. We had a good time. That's kind of the life I'm in.

"I think it is quite logical that everyone has an opinion. And that it is logical for the trainer to answer a question when he receives it. And that he gives his opinion about it. I haven't discussed that with him personally yet. The trainer and I have a great relationship, which also extends off the field. Of course, I played for him at Barcelona. An opinion is always welcome, especially when he says it. We can talk about it privately, and that is what we will do.”

Promes' legal woes are not limited to his recent conviction. In 2023, the former Twente and Sevilla winger was found guilty of stabbing his cousin in the leg, resulting in an 18-month jail term. Despite the gravity of these charges, Promes denied the allegations and chose not to attend the trial.