Memphis Depay: Louis Van Gaal convinced me to join

Memphis Depay and Louis Van Gaal Man Utd

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Memphis Depay has credited Louis van Gaal as the reason for him joining Manchester United this summer.

The winger enjoyed a stellar season with PSV Eindhoven last term, leading them to a first Eredivisie title for seven years and in the process attracting interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.

Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain were amongst those thought to be eyeing up a move but it was United who sealed his signature, moving early to complete a deal worth £25m in May.

One of the main reasons behind the 21-year-old’s move to Old Trafford was the presence of Red Devils’ boss Louis van Gaal, the man who first picked him for the Dutch national team.

Depay admits he was tempted by offers from elsewhere, but says that after holding talks with the charismatic 63-year-old, he was only ever going to join Manchester United.

“There were discussions with nearly all the top clubs,” he told German magazine SportsBild. “And of course FC Bayern was one of them. But in the end Manchester United came out on top.

“I can’t say who the best coach in the world is. There are definitely a lot of good and well-known managers and Pep Guardiola is certainly one of them.

“But I only spoke to Louis van Gaal and he totally convinced me.

“He gave me the feeling that I was very important for him not only as a player but also as a person. And then it was clear that I would go to Manchester United.”

The rejuvenated Red Devils are currently 6.00 fourth favourites to win the Premier League title, with champions Chelsea currently leading the way at 2.50.

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