Memphis Depay this, Memphis Depay that… Football fans – specifically those who follow Liverpool and Manchester United – are almost unable to go through a day without hearing something about the Dutch winger. His 20 Eredivisie goals have helped fire PSV Eindhoven to an early league title, and rumours suggest that both clubs are indeed ready to take him on on the back of such performances.
It’s easy to see why they want the 21-year-old, but what would be best for the player himself? Well, we’ve looked at the biggest factors facing the talented attacker to break down what may be the biggest transfer saga of the looming summer transfer window into four parts…
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Game time
At 21, Depay needs to be playing. A regular for PSV all season, his performances have maintained an upward trajectory, helping him to emerge as a target for the ‘biggest teams’.
Man United – While Man United have plenty of talented options, Depay may actually find a role on the left flank at Old Trafford. Ashley Young has impressed, but the England international’s entire career has been hot and cold, so it would be no shock to see him dip once again. The likes of Angel Di Maria, Juan Mata and Antonio Valencia are also factors, but with Champions League football (most likely) and domestic action to balance, minutes should be available. But, much depends on other United signings…
Liverpool – Liverpool are pretty heavy in terms of attacking midfielders. Raheem Sterling, Adam Lallana, Philippe Coutinho, Lazar Markovic… all of the above can play on the flanks, which means that Depay will have to fight. However, the PSV ace can feature as a striker, which may be of benefit at Anfield due to Brendan Rodgers’ lack of options. The Reds may also face a tricky Europa League balancing act, which means plenty of extra games.
Chances of progress
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Still young, the Dutchman has plenty of time on his side to get better and better, but he’ll need the right manager to help him…
Man United – Van Gaal is known for his ability to nurture youngsters. Top players at Barcelona and Bayern Munich have lauded his role in their development in the past, but things appear a little different at United. Adnan Januzaj’s woes are a potential warning sign for Depay, with the Belgian having been forgotten about this season, despite being one of the Red Devils’ only impressive 2013/14 performers.
Liverpool – Rodgers has his critics, but no one can fault his patience and willingness to help young players. Sterling has progressed under his guidance, while Coutinho and Daniel Sturridge have both had their careers rejuvenated at Anfield. The Northern Irishman also likes to give freedom to fledgling talents, so Depay’s eccentric attacking style and flair may be harnessed on Merseyside.
Suitability
Pacey, skilful and with an eye for the spectacular, Depay has planet about him…
Man United – Van Gaal knows Depay’s game inside out. The Dutchman took the emerging talent to the World Cup last year as a part of his then Netherlands side, and thrust him into the action from the bench regularly. Two goals were his reward. There’s no doubting that LVG could get the best from Depay, with his knowledge of his game and style likely to ease the adaptation process, which could be a big help. His influence from wide also fits perfectly in a 4-3-3, which the United boss seems to be heading back to.
Liverpool – Rodgers loves players who can drift across a front three and play well in ‘transition’. Depay is able to do the above, with his pace and individual ability both well suited to the type of football the Anfield chief chases. The wide-man could also function well with Sterling and Sturridge, while his runs and Coutinho’s vision in a 4-2-3-1 is a mouth-watering prospect for Reds.
Chances of success
All players want to end their career with silverware and accolades…
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Man United – A return to the Champions League looks to be on the cards, and with the budget United have and a team full of experienced and talented players, the good times look to be coming back. Depay could certainly get some instant success at Old Trafford, with tilts for the league title and domestic cups expected next term, even if Europe may be a bridge too far for now.
Liverpool – Rodgers is currently trophy-less in three seasons at Liverpool. The title was agonisingly close last term, but bottling it in big games – such as the FA Cup semi-final over the weekend – suggests that the Reds lack the big time mentality. Silverware may be off the menu at Anfield, but Depay could use the club as a stepping stone, with cup runs always expected in Merseyside.
CLICK ON TO REVEAL THE VERDICT
Overall…
It’s a tough call for Depay. The LVG link-up is tempting thanks to his understanding of his style of play, but game time may be harder to come by, while the pressure of life at Old Trafford has worn down bigger names in the past. Liverpool, however, provide a good platform to play and build on his reputation, but no Champions League football is a drawback…
On balance, United appears to be the better choice for Depay, but much depends on other players United may sign this summer.