Man United's Memphis Depay: Louis van Gaal exit doesn't affect me

Posted Wednesday, May 25, 2016 by ESPN

Jose Mourinho would be a success at Manchester United, according to a host of former players.

Memphis Depay does not believe Louis van Gaal's departure will affect his Manchester United future and played down the significance of his fellow Dutchman giving him his chance in the Premier League.

Van Gaal, who left United on Monday, signed Depay from PSV Eindhoven last summer after having worked with the forward during his time in charge of Netherlands.

When it was suggested that Van Gaal had given him the chance to play in England, the 22-year-old, who had also been a target for Liverpool, told De Telegraaf he would have succeeded in doing so regardless.

"I say that because I believe in myself and work hard," he said.

He had said last summer that Van Gaal was a key reason for his decision to join United ahead of other clubs, including Bayern Munich, but his debut season at Old Trafford did not work out as hoped.

He was left out of the squad for Saturday's FA Cup final success over Crystal Palace, which the player describes as "disappointing."

Memphis Depay struggled during his debut season at United under Louis van Gaal.

Asked if he had a love-hate relationship with the former Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern boss, he said: "I don't know, and now he's leaving. That's how it goes in football, in life, and you learn and grow stronger."

On whether Van Gaal's exit would be a problem for him, he said: "No, this does not affect me. I am happy to be at Manchester United and the board is happy with me, so I don't know why it would."

Jose Mourinho is strongly expected to be named Van Gaal's replacement this week, and Depay said he would seek advice from international teammate Wesley Sneijder, who played under the Portuguese at Inter Milan.

"If Mourinho officially arrives, I'll certainly ask Wesley Sneijder what kind of man he is," he said.

When told Sneijder describes him as the best coach he has ever worked with, Depay said: "That's a nice prospect."

Depay has made 46 appearances for United in all competitions, scoring six goals and providing one assist.