Memphis Depay lifts the lid on his difficult time at Man United

Memphis Depay believes mental strength has been a major factor behind his improved form since leaving Manchester United in January 2017.

The winger provided just seven goals and six assists in 53 appearances for the Red Devils after joining from PSV Eindhoven in a £30million deal in July 2015.

A subsequent move to Ligue 1 club Lyon has been the catalyst for the Dutchman's upturn in fortunes, producing 12 goals and 16 assists in 47 appearances last season.

'My mental state is different. I was 21 back then when I was with United and now I am 25 so obviously I am a more matured human being now, than when I was in Manchester,' Depay said in an interview with the Mirror.

'Also there is a difference between the French game and the English game and the main difference is the speed of the ball. In England it goes very fast, attack and defence and attack and defence again.

'For me I don't know if speed is necessary all the time as it is here because for me it's all about technique but the Premier League is the toughest in the world.'

While setting his targets for the upcoming season, the Holland international also alluded to being unsettled during his time at Old Trafford.

'I am going to try to be happy too because for me trying to be happy outside the pitch reflects in my performance on the pitch and that translate into helping them win trophies, score goals and give assists to runners and other players for us to win matches in the coming season.'

Depay's Lyon face Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday before beginning their Ligue 1 campaign at Monaco on Friday, August 9.