In an emotional return, former Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea will be back at Old Trafford, this time wearing the colors of his current team, Fiorentina. The pre-season friendly between Manchester United and Fiorentina on Saturday, August 9, will serve as a long-awaited farewell for the Spaniard, who departed the club in 2023 after a 12-year stint.
De Gea’s career at Manchester United was a story of a player who overcame a difficult start to become one of the club’s most celebrated figures. Signed in 2011 from Atlético Madrid, he was tasked with the immense challenge of replacing Edwin van der Sar. After an initial tough period, he developed a reputation for his exceptional shot-stopping abilities and quick reflexes. During his time at the club, he amassed an impressive list of honors:
Team Trophies:
- Premier League: 2012–13
- FA Cup: 2015–16
- League Cup: 2016–17, 2022–23
- Community Shield: 2011, 2013, 2016
- UEFA Europa League: 2016–17
Individual Awards:
- Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year (voted by fans): 2013–14, 2014–15, 2015–16, 2017–18
- Players’ Player of the Year: 2013–14, 2014–15, 2017–18, 2021–22
- PFA Team of the Year: 2012–13, 2014–15, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18
- Premier League Golden Glove: 2017–18, 2022–23
He also holds the club record for the most clean sheets.
A significant chapter in De Gea’s United career was the failed transfer to Real Madrid in 2015. A deal had been agreed, and he was on the verge of returning to his home city, but the transfer famously collapsed on deadline day due to a mix-up with the paperwork. De Gea would later sign a new contract with United, stating he was happy to stay, and would go on to become a fan favorite and a cult hero.
The affection fans have for De Gea is evident in the warm reception he is expected to receive. Many supporters consider his departure in 2023, after his contract expired, to have been handled poorly, as he never received a proper send-off. His return with Fiorentina will finally give fans a chance to show their appreciation for his years of service at the club. De Gea himself has expressed his excitement about the return, posting on social media, “United Road. See you Saturday.”
