After a season long speculation, Memphis Depay was rumoured to be joining either one of Liverpool or PSG, ahead of his other suitors. But, in the end, the young Dutchman surprisingly chose Liverpool’s fierce rival Manchester United instead.
The reason for choosing Manchester Reds over Merseyside Reds was largely because of his former national team manager Louis van Gaal. Apparently the former Dutch manager made a personal intervention to secure the deal, according to ESPN FC.
Both Manchester United and PSV and confirmed Depay’s move to Manchester United on Thursday. The young winger is soon expected to undergo a medical before finalising his transfer when the window opens in June.
However, it was not all easy for the Red Devils in the securing the deal. Only last week, PSV director Marcel Brands reportedly said that both Liverpool and PSG were ahead of United in the race for the wingers signature.
But, according to ESPN FC, Van Gaal intervened to ensure United complete the deal. Van Gaal, who coached Depay at the 2014 World Cup, outlined his vision and long-term plans for United in talks with the player to convince him to snub a switch to Anfield.
According to United’s official website, Depay said he was excited to be working under the former Netherlands boss again. “Yes, that feeling was good — I know the trainer very well,” he said. “We have a good relationship. It was a little difficult with all the speculation about my future, but now I’ve chosen to sign for Manchester United and my dream came true. It shows that I’ve grown up as a player.”
If Van Gaal had not intervened, then the impressive Dutch winger may have gone to United’s direct rivals Liverpool and given them a head start for the next campaign. But, for now the Reds fans can be happy with pipping out their direct rival with their primary target. God knows how Liverpool fans will be feeling right now!
