After 12 seasons at Manchester United, David de Gea bids an emotional farewell to the club and its fans.
De Gea and Manchester United confirmed their expected split on Saturday afternoon, with both the player and the club sharing sentiments of mutual respect. The Spaniard leaves Old Trafford after 12 years, almost 500 appearances, and four times being named the club’s player of the year.
The Spaniard posted on Instagram: “I would like to express my unwavering gratitude and appreciation for the love from the last 12 years. We’ve achieved a lot since my dear Sir Alex Ferguson brought me to this club. I took incredible pride every time I pulled on this shirt.
“It’s been an unforgettable and successful period since I came here. I didn’t think from leaving Madrid as a young boy we would achieve what we did together.
“Now, it’s the right time to undertake a new challenge, to push myself again in new surroundings.
“Manchester will always be in my heart. Manchester has shaped me and will never leave me.
“We’ve seen it all. 🤘🏼❤️”
Shortly after, United’s official site paid tribute to “one of the greatest goalkeepers in the history of the club.”
Manager Erik ten Hag added: “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.”
After De Gea’s contract expired with little chance of renewal, a split seemed unavoidable. United looked unwilling to match the goalkeeper’s prior deal, indicating that both parties believed it was time to move on.
After paying tribute to their number one for the past 12 years, United will now focus on signing selected successor Andre Onana.
