Out-of-form Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea could “play for Manchester City”
Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea could play for arch-rivals Manchester City or Barcelona because his ability is at a “really high level” according to his former coach.
The Spanish international will be disappointed that the Red Devils were not able to finish in the top four of the Premier League this season, ending their Champions League hopes.
A transfer for De Gea? Five things you need to know…
- David de Gea joined Manchester United from La Liga giants Atletico Madrid in 2001.
- He has amassed 361 appearances for the club in all competitions.
- The Spanish shot-stopper has helped the club lift the Premier League title, Europa League, FA Cup and EFL Cup.
- However, his form has declined in recent months, making high-profile mistakes against Barcelona, Everton and Chelsea.
- His contract expires at the end of next season.
Speaking to reporters about the future of Manchester United’s number one, former United goalkeeping coach Frans Hoek believes that despite De Gea’s recent struggle for form, the ‘keeper has the technical ability to play for arch-rivals Manchester City.
Naming Champions League semi-finalists Barcelona – the side that beat United in the quarter-finals this season – as the other side De Gea could ply his trade for, Hoek believes that De Gea’s footwork belongs with the very best.
“I worked with him for two years at Manchester United and I must say he’s at a really high level,” Hoek told Marca.
“It’s not easy to play three games a week as is demanded in England and maintain a high level.
“Particularly when anyone can beat anyone there. But he does it.
“That’s why it’s unusual to see him make mistakes at international level. De Gea could play for Barcelona or City because playing with his feet is among his many qualities.”
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Would either side take him?
There is no doubt that David de Gea is one of the greatest goalkeepers on the planet.
However, his form in recent weeks has seen the Spaniard drop a few clangers as United’s Champions League charge faltered at the final hurdle, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side having to settle with Europa League football next season.
Manchester City’s top-choice goalkeeper Ederson has wowed once again, with the Citizen’s conceding just 22 goals in 37 matches in the Premier League.
At just 27-years-old, Barcelona shot-stopper Marc-André ter Stegen has plenty of time on his side and despite the Catalan giants shock European exit to Liverpool, are still on course to win the double this season.
There would be few clubs who would decline the opportunity of signing De Gea but maybe these two are the exception.
