Memphis Depay is set to leave Atletico Madrid on contract expiry this summer and he is considering a move back to Manchester United.
He moved from Barcelona to Atletico 18 months back but now has to leave due to some issues.
Under the watch of Louis Van Gaal, Depay came to Manchester United for £25 million from PSV Eindhoven in 2015.
He showed some spark but couldn’t quite fit into the fast pace of the Premier League.
This led to less game time, and he only got to play in one league game in the 2016-17 season. His £17 million transfer to Olympique Lyon in January 2017 was resulted from this.
There have also been difficulties during his time at Atletico Madrid. Depay was limited to just over 1200 minutes of play due to injuries despite scoring nine goals in 31 games this season across all competitions. As a result, Atletico made the decision not to renew his deal which was supposed to run until 2025.
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Barcelona will also lose out on the 50% sell-on clause they had negotiated with Atletico Madrid in Depay’s transfer agreement as a result of this decision. Depay has expressed his interest in going back to Manchester United despite these obstacles.
It has been reported that he has started conversations regarding a possible return to Old Trafford.
Depay’s distinct personality and the difficulties it presents have been highlighted by former United captain Rio Ferdinand who called him a maverick.
Ferdinand mentioned that not all football fans would find Depay’s personality and way of life to be in line with their expectations.
The uncertain future of current manager Erik ten Hag complicates Depay’s possible return to Manchester United even more.
It’s unclear if Depay would fit into United’s plans whether Ten Hag stays or a new manager takes over, especially considering his recent injury struggles and little playing time.
Depay received the famous number 7 shirt—previously worn by Angel Di Maria—during his previous stay at Manchester United.
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That being said he left early because his performance fell short of expectations. However, if he can get back to form and fitness Depay’s skills and experience might make him a useful addition.
The prospect of Depay rejoining Manchester United in the Premier League will be closely monitored as the summer transfer window draws near.
Taking into account the past and the present, both parties must carefully consider whether getting back together is in their best interests.
This possible transfer could provide Depay the chance to establish himself at Old Trafford once more while giving Manchester United a skilled and experienced player ready to contribute.
