Memphis Depay reveals he gained five kilos and 'fell back' at Manchester United

The Netherlands winger discusses the changes he's undergone since moving to Old Trafford

Memphis Depay (GETTY IMAGES)

Memphis Depay admits he "fell back" at Manchester United, but has pointed towards a change in his regime that has seen him put on five kilos.

The Netherlands international moved to Old Trafford in a £25m deal over the summer, arriving with an air of confidence befitting of a player taking on the United No 7 jersey.

However, he has been disappointing, so much so that he's found himself on the fringes of Louis van Gaal's plans and has not featured in a Premier League game since the start of October.

Speaking to Dutch news outlet NOS, the 21-year-old conceded his levels had dipped.

“I think lots of things changed. I’m in a new club right now, it’s a different level. Such things are playing a big role and you’re trying to find your way.

“It was a bit easy at the start but then I fell back and you could see it in the way I played."

In a separate interview, with Telegraaf, Depay explained that among the changes he is dealing with is increased weight.

"Since I joined Manchester United I’ve gained five kilos," he revealed.

"And that’s not fat. Only muscle mass. It’s pretty bizarre. It’s also due to the heavy rhythm in England. I now weigh 85 kilos.

"When I stood on the scales first I thought, 'OK, do you?' My body is still developing. Now I’m a little heavier. I work a lot on my co-ordination and starting speed."

Depay, who was left out of the Netherlands squad for the current international break, says he is confident he can regain the form he showed in his final year at PSV Eindhoven that saw him depart as the top scorer in the Eredivisie.

“Of course it’s difficult when you’re on the bench, but it’s going better right now.

“I feel fit and I’m trying to show on the training ground that I’m doing my best to perform well. People are used to seeing me score and that will also come.

“If I get my chance to play, I will take it."