The veteran Spanish goalkeeper departs Manchester United after a dozen seasons at Old Trafford.
David De Gea has parted ways with Manchester United. The English club and the Spanish shot-stopper confirmed on a recent Saturday that after twelve years together, their paths are diverging.
David De Gea exits Manchester United: motivations, next steps, and potential new club
De Gea announced the news himself on social media. The anticipated arrival of Inter’s Onana had fueled talk that a departure might be near, while questions lingered about a possible extension given De Gea’s contract situation at United. The club’s stance and the player’s next move were the subject of much debate throughout the offseason.
“I want to share this farewell message with all Manchester United fans. My gratitude and appreciation for the love shown over the past 12 years know no bounds. We have come a long way since Sir Alex Ferguson first brought me here. I was incredibly proud every time I wore this shirt, captained the team, and represented this institution—the greatest club in the world. It has been an unforgettable and successful period since I arrived. I never imagined while leaving Madrid as a youngster that we would achieve what we did together. Now feels like the right moment to take on a new challenge and push myself again in a different environment. Manchester will always have a place in my heart. Manchester shaped me, and I never left it behind. We have seen it all together”, De Gea posted on his social channels.
I wanted to extend this farewell message to all Manchester United supporters.
I would like to convey my unwavering gratitude for the love shown over the past 12 years. We achieved a great deal since the early days under Sir Alex Ferguson. The journey has been remarkable… pic.twitter.com/6R7ezOEf1E
— David de Gea (@D_DeGea) July 8, 2023
Manchester United publicly thanked De Gea for his contributions and described him as an eternal legend of Old Trafford. The club posted a message of appreciation alongside a highlight reel, underscoring the impact of his long service.
United confirms De Gea’s departure
David De Gea leaves Manchester United after a 12-year spell that secured a plethora of trophies and personal accolades, cementing his status as one of the club’s all-time greats between the posts. He joined United after starting his senior career with Atlético Madrid in 2011, and his time at United featured 545 appearances and 190 clean sheets—both records for a United goalkeeper. The trophy haul included the Premier League crown, the FA Cup, the UEFA Europa League, and two Carabao Cups.
Individually, De Gea earned recognition such as two Premier League Golden Glove awards, a record four Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year honors (voted by fans), and four Players’ Player of the Year awards. His legacy at United reflects consistently high performance, longevity, and leadership within the squad.
The potential next stop for De Gea
Reports from media outlets have suggested several destinations as possible next steps, with one widely discussed option being a move to the Middle East, where several high-profile clubs have shown interest in experienced European goalkeepers. Rumors in some circles quoted a significant salary offer that could accompany a new chapter in his career. Other clubs were also briefly linked as potential suitors, illustrating the wide interest in a goalkeeper with De Gea’s pedigree and experience.
Source: Goal