Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag has, on Saturday, bid a fond farewell to departing goalkeeper David de Gea.
The situation between the posts has of course found itself centre stage in the headlines on the red half of Manchester across the day to date.
This comes after word was finally forthcoming that long-time no.1 David de Gea’s Old Trafford stint has come to a close.
After the two parties failed to come to an agreement on the terms of a new contract, the decision was taken for the Spaniard, after a full 12 years in England, to seek out the next chapter of his career.
‘David De Gea has announced his departure from Manchester United, bringing an end to a 12-year stay during which he secured an array of trophies and personal accolades to cement his place as one of the greatest goalkeepers in the history of the club,’ the Red Devils announced.
Forever a United legend.
Thank you for everything, @D_DeGea ❤️#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 8, 2023
News of De Gea’s departure has since been met with something of a mixed response, with some having opted to thank the 32-year-old for his service in Manchester, whilst others focus more on their relief with the prospect of a new no.1 landing at the Theatre of Dreams ahead of next season.
Speaking to the Red Devils’ official website on Saturday, Ten Hag sent a farewell message to his departing no.1, confirming his belief that De Gea stands as ‘one of the very best goalkeepers in the history of the club’:
“It takes great quality and character to reach the level of even playing one game for Manchester United. To do it 545 times over 12 years is a special achievement, particularly in the goalkeeping position where every game puts you in the spotlight.
“To have won Player of the Year awards from both the fans and his team-mates, each on four occasions, shows the level of his performance and he will always be remembered as one of the very best goalkeepers in the history of the club.
“I am personally grateful for the 25 clean sheets he helped provide last season and his overall contribution on the pitch during my first year at the club. All the players and staff send him our very best wishes for the next phase of his outstanding career.”
Nothing but respect and admiration 🫶#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 8, 2023
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