Following Phil Jones’ exit from Manchester United, David De Gea is now the only player from Sir Alex Ferguson’s team that won the Premier League in 2013. Signed for what was a British record for a goalkeeper in 2011, De Gea arrived as the successor of Edwin Van der Sar.
De Gea quickly settled and became a mainstay in the United side, winning the Premier League title in his second season with the club. Unfortunately, through the inconsistent post-Ferguson era, De Gea was the only shining light for the Red Devils until recently.
Nonetheless, time has finally caught up with the Spaniard. He doesn’t have the ability to play modern football. He committed several errors leading to goals last season, with howlers against Brentford, Sevilla, and Manchester City.
Manchester United Boss Prioritizes New No. 1 in Place of De Gea
De Gea’s time at Old Trafford last season was stacked with criticism and it appears to be his time. The 32-year-old’s contract expires tomorrow, and Ten Hag is now planning for life after him.
De Gea is a traditional goalkeeper who has never been comfortable with his feet. This is a huge issue in today’s game, where goalkeepers are expected to help the team start attacks by playing out from the back.
Manchester United have been linked with a number of goalkeepers that are perfect for the purpose. Porto’s Diogo Costa, Inter Milan’s Andre Onana, and AC Milan’s Mike Maignan have all been linked with the club.
United Pinpoint Andre Onana to Replace the Spaniard
Andre Onana’s performances over the last few seasons have caught the eyes of many. He’s perhaps the most confident goalkeeper in the world, not being fazed when pressured by opposition players. His ball-playing abilities make him a perfect fit for any modern team in the world right now.
He may be in between the sticks for Manchester United come next season. The Cameroonian is familiar with Erik ten Hag, whom he played under at Ajax. He understands the manager’s philosophy and would be an excellent signing for United.
With a goalkeeper comfortable with his feet behind a solid defensive group of Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane, you can only imagine how solid that United backline would look next season.
Dean Henderson’s Chances to Succeed David De Gea
Dean Henderson is a familiar face at United and has been backed to challenge De Gea for the no. 1 spot in the past. However, things haven’t gone according to plan for the England international. He spent most of last season nursing an injury on loan at Nottingham Forest.
He’s likely to be moved on permanently this summer. With Nottingham Forest set to return with a bid in the region of £30 million for the 26-year-old, it a win win situation.
Which goalkeeper should replace David De Gea at Manchester United? Do you think De Gea deserves another season at Old Trafford? Let us know in the comments section.
