David De Gea leaves Man Utd – Sport Grill – News Block

Goalkeeper David de Gea has announced his departure from Manchester United.

De Gea’s decision to leave Utd comes after weeks of discussions over a new contract with a pay cut, as the Spain international has been a free agent since his contract expired on June 30.

Confirming his departure, De Gea shared a farewell tweet on Twitter in which he expressed ‘unwavering thanks and appreciation’ for the support of the fans since he arrived.

I just wanted to send this farewell message to all Manchester United fans.

I would like to express my unwavering gratitude and appreciation for the love of the past 12 years. We have achieved a lot since my dear Sir Alex Ferguson brought me to this club. I took amazing… pic.twitter.com/6R7ezOEf1E

—David de Gea (@D_DeGea) July 8, 2023

De Gea went on to add that now marked the right time to face ‘a new challenge’, in a new environment that potentially ruled out a move to another English club.

The 32-year-old is leaving having maintained a club-record 190 clean sheets in 545 appearances for a Utd goalkeeper, during which the Red Devils won three FA Community Shields, two EFL Cups plus one Premier League title, FA Cup and UEFA Europa League each. .

His most recent and final trophy with Utd came last season when the Red Devils beat Newcastle United at Wembley in the EFL Cup final.

Manager Erik ten Hag issued his own tribute to De Gea, commenting: “It takes great quality and character to reach the level of playing one game for Manchester United.

“To do it 545 times in 12 years is a special achievement, particularly in the goalkeeping position where every game puts you in the spotlight.

“Having won the Player of the Year award from both the fans and his teammates, four times each, demonstrates the level of his performance and he will always be remembered as one of the best goalkeepers in the club’s history.

“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 best wishes for the next phase of his outstanding career.”