Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has thanked goalkeeper David de Gea for his years of service after the Spaniard confirmed his decision to leave the club.
De Gea’s contract expired this summer and, despite United’s attempt to tie him down to an extension on significantly reduced terms, the Spaniard has revealed his intention to pursue a new challenge.
It brings an end to a 12-year spell at Old Trafford for De Gea, and Ten Hag was keen to pay his respects to the stopper.
“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,” Ten Hag told club media.
“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.”
Football director John Murtough added: “David leaves Manchester United with the deepest respect and warmest appreciation of everyone associated with the club. To have set new club records for goalkeeper appearances and clean sheets, surpassing Alex Stepney and Peter Schmeichel respectively, shows just how great a player he has been for us.
“Just as important are his qualities as a person, and he will be missed by all of us who have had the privilege of working with him over the past 12 years. David will always be part of the Manchester United family and we look forward to welcoming him back to Old Trafford in future as a legend of the club.”
Despite their attempts to retain De Gea, United are deep in talks over signing his replacement and are hopeful of striking an agreement for Inter’s Andre Onana.
Ten Hag wanted another top-level goalkeeper to compete with De Gea but, with only returning loanee Dean Henderson and veteran Tom Heaton currently on the books, may need to find a second new face this summer.