When Anthony Martial signed for Manchester United there were huge concerns about whether he could cope with the pressure associated with his enormous price tag.
But while he has shone, latest media reports suggest that all is not well with the formative Manchester United career of Memphis.
The Telegraph reports:
Memphis Depay’s ‘big star’ attitude doesn’t match his early-season form and Manchester United are beginning to get lose patience, according to former Dutch international Youri Mulder.
Speaking to Dutch outlet NOS, Mulder said: “In the Premier League he suffers, yet his attitude suggests that he is a big star.
In truth his form has been fitful since he joined Manchester United from PSV for around £25m in the summer.
Some of our readers have suggested that he is the new Nani – an individual who struggles with the team ethic and makes bad decisions.
soccersweep verdict
We have always been fans of youthful signings over established stars who come with huge salaries and are unlikely to improve.
But with any young signing comes the risk of teething problems and even ultimate failure. Manchester United have seen it with the likes of Nani, Anderson and many others.
But, most importantly, Manchester United need to show patience with Memphis – to create the perfect environment for him to succeed.
He certainly isn’t going to become a top star if the crowd gets on his back after a few short months and we also questioned the decision of LvG to sub Memphis at half time in two recent games – he certainly wasn’t the worst Manchester United player against Arsenal.
And we have seen more than enough pace, power and creativity to suggest that this kid is the real deal.
At 21 he needs time and love. Don’t expect him to be the match-winner every week.
Instead, consider him as a young member of the Manchester United family who needs to make mistakes in order to develop.
Memphis had a rough ride at times in his youth but he has shown more than enough effort, application and commitment through adversity to become a top player.
Manchester United have bought a rough diamond and they simply need to protect and polish it.
United fans: is Memphis the real deal?
