Ex-Netherlands international Ronald de Boer feels Memphis Depay has it in in him to succeed at Manchester United, just as Cristiano Ronaldo did before him.

The winger, who joined the Red Devils from PSV Eindhoven in the summer, has struggled for consistency at Old Trafford and slipped out of the team on occasion.




Depay has thus far made 17 appearances in all competitions for the Premier League outfit, scoring five times and providing four assists, his latest goal coming in the side's 2-1 win at Watford on Saturday.

But De Boer, who feels Depay need some time to settle in his new environment, has backed his compatriot to shine for Manchester United.
 


The Dutchman further provided the example of how Ronaldo struggled initially at Manchester United before becoming the superstar he is now.

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"Memphis' recent struggles are quite normal when you join such a big club from an Eredivisie side", De Boer told Dutch daily De Telegraaf.

"What really matters is how he deals with it. Let's not forget that Memphis is still only 21. I was 23 when I started to see how things work in football. We now expect 21-year-olds to be ready to shine at major clubs.

"Cristiano Ronaldo was not a superstar right away either when he joined Manchester United", De Boer stressed. 

"I remember that there were a lot of doubts as to whether he would succeed. Ronaldo received his fair share of criticism for his antics and people regarded him as a circus act. And just look at what he has achieved now.

"Memphis is a player with exceptional qualities. I am talking about his technique, pace, power and ability to find the net. Plus he is able to beat his direct opponents, something that is becoming increasingly rare in modern football.

"Memphis has what it takes to succeed at the top, but it will not be easy. You have to be able to deal with setbacks, be critical of your own performances and put in some extra effort when things are not going your way.

"It is hard to say whether he can do all that, but I am optimistic about his chances of becoming a hit at Manchester United."

Depay, whose contract with Manchester United runs until 2019, guided PSV Eindhoven to the Eredivisie title last year by scoring 22 goals in 30 league games.

The 21-year-old has represented the Netherlands at various youth levels and has also earned 21 senior caps for the nation.