Memphis Depay channels his inner Floyd Mayweather as he thanks his sponsors for Manchester United transfer

Mayweather did the same following his win over Manny Pacquiao, although Depay also reveals his excitement ahead of the June move

Jack de Menezes
Thursday 07 May 2015 10:56 EDT
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Floyd Mayweather and Memphis Depay
Floyd Mayweather and Memphis Depay (Getty Images)

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Memphis Depay has spoken for the first time since a deal was agreed for the PSV Eindhoven forward to join Manchester United as the Netherlands international described it as a "dream move".

But in a move similar to Floyd Mayweather’s victory speech following his boxing victory over Manny Pacquiao, Depay has immediately thanked his sponsors for their part in the transfer – which will be completed once he has passed a medical and signed the relevant paperwork.

"I always say; Dream, Believe, Achieve," Depay, who has the phrase tattooed on his torso, said on his Twitter account.

"I was dreaming and believing of becoming the champions of the Eredivisie with PSV and we achieved it.

"I'm extremely grateful towards PSV, all the fans, (sponsors) UnderArmour and (agents)SEG-Football for believing in me.

"Now it's time to set my goals again on winning trophies with ManUtd."

While sponsors have become increasingly more visible in the sporting world in recent times, it still seems odd that a player would thank them for a transfer of clubs which they likely had very little to do with. It also gives the impression that Depay is trying to score brownie points with the sponsor – as Mayweather has done so well over the years, in the hope to boost his own position when it comes to negotiating finances. While it’s a good tactic, it doesn’t always sit well with the fans. Just ask ‘Money’ Mayweather.

However, what will have pleased United’s supporters is Depay’s excitement at playing under United manager Louis van Gaal once again, having played under his stewardship during the World Cup last summer.

He will also link up with his international captain Robin van Persie as well as compatriot Daley Blind, and it is something that Depay has described as a “big bonus”.

"It was an exciting and pretty hectic period, and to have a choice between so many top clubs doesn't make it any easier," Depay added on his Facebook page.

Depay will join Manchester United in June
Depay will join Manchester United in June (Getty Images)

"For me, Manchester United is an absolute dream club, so I didn't need any convincing (from) the guys who already play at Manchester United.

"They told me only positive things though, and I'm looking forward to playing with my Dutch team-mates next to all the other great players of Manchester United. And working with manager Louis van Gaal again is also a big bonus."

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