Manchester United: Memphis Depay reveals Jose Mourinho relationship during final months at Old Trafford
Winger flopped during time in England but is hoping to rebuild career at Lyon following big-money move to France this month
MEMPHIS DEPAY admits his final months on the Manchester United bench were difficult to stomach but insists Jose Mourinho is still a ‘great coach and person’.
The flying Dutchman was shipped off to Lyon earlier this month in a deal which could reach £21million through add-ons.
United have included a buyback clause – a rarity for English clubs – and Mourinho was full of praise for Depay when the move was confirmed.
Many Red Devils fans are sure to hoping he succeeds over in France after seeing little magic at Old Trafford.
And although Depay concedes he struggled to cope at times during the last six months, he holds no grudges against Mourinho or United.
Speaking to OL TV, Depay said: “[Mourinho’s] words were nice. In Manchester United, I always worked as I had to.
“For me personally, it wasn’t all that easy. I needed to play, but we didn’t have a bad relationship.
“He’s a great coach and a great person. Now we’ll see here how I play. In any case, I think he has said good things about me.”
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Reflecting on his first week at Lyon, Depay added: “I’m known because I score goals and provide assists. But I also know the leading scorer here, Alexandre Lacazette. We have a good understanding, his movement is very good.
“I feel very good, in top form. My first week was good, training went very well and little by little I’m getting back into the rhythm.
“Now I think I’m ready to start a game as of the next match. I’m training hard, my fitness is good. I think I can push for a starting place for the next game.”