Memphis Depay set a new record playing for the Netherlands during a 3-2 win over Lithuania on Sunday night.
10 years have passed since Memphis Depay joined Manchester United following an incredible breakthrough at PSV Eindhoven. Louis van Gaal was appointed manager as David Moyes’ successor that summer and decided to sign the hottest prospect in the Netherlands.
The excitement around Depay’s transfer was short-lived as he failed to fulfil his potential at Old Trafford. In two seasons, he played 53 games, scoring just seven goals.
Considering the turmoil that has been experienced at United since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement, it could be argued that Depay didn’t arrive in the best environment for a young, budding star. That is something Ruben Amorim is trying to change 10 years on as United head coach.
Although Depay flopped at United, the 31-year-old has gone on to play for Lyon, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. He currently plays for Corinthians.
Memphis Depay becomes the Netherlands top scorer
Photo by PETRAS MALUKAS/AFP via Getty Images
Memphis Depay breaks Robin van Persie record
The Netherlands required two goals from Depay against Lithuania to continue their quest for World Cup qualification with a victory.
The two goals saw the former United star surpass Robin van Persie’s previous record for the Netherlands. That means Depay is his nation’s all-time top scorer with 52 goals.
Van Persie amassed 50 goals for the Netherlands in 102 games. His final international appearance came in August 2017.
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Top 5 scorers for the Netherlands
Memphis Depay – 52
Robin van Persie – 50
Klaas-Jan Huntelaar – 42
Patrick Kluivert – 40
Dennis Bergkamp – 37
Now, Depay will be aiming to secure a place in the World Cup next summer.
Ronald Koeman will rely on his veteran forward to provide the goals and add to his record tally.
What did Depay say about his time at Man Utd?
In 2018, Depay reflected on his time at United and accepted that he did not reach the required standards on the pitch.
It was a difficult time for the Dutch forward and he used the experience to build his career elsewhere.
“Everybody knows the story of me and Manchester United was not successful,” said Depay, as quoted by BBC Sport.
“Everybody can see that and I can feel it myself. I can look back and say I didn’t want it to go like that – nobody did – but things happened.
“After one season, I couldn’t find myself in the team. I was still young, didn’t get a lot of opportunities, but I must say that the first season I didn’t put the quality on the table that I thought.”