London, Jul 8 (EFE).- Spanish goalkeeper David de Gea confirmed Saturday that he will leave Manchester United after his contract with the English club expired last month.
The 32-year-old leaves Old Trafford after 12 years, during which he won the Premier League, two League Cups, an FA Cup and the Europa League.
“It’s the right time to undertake a new challenge, to push myself again in new surroundings,” De Gea said in a statement.
De Gea’s contract expired on June 30, and he failed to reach an agreement with United on an extension.
His departure had been a possibility for months, given that manager Erik Ten Hag favors goalkeepers who are comfortable with the ball at their feet, something De Gea did not excel at during an error-strewn campaign last season.
“I would like to express my unwavering gratitude and appreciation for the love from the last 12 years. We’ve achieved a lot since my dear Sir Alex Ferguson brought me to this club. I took incredible pride every time I pulled on this shirt, to lead the team, to represent this institution, the biggest club in the world was an honor only bestowed upon a few lucky footballers,” De Gea said.
“It’s been an unforgettable and successful period since I came here. I didn’t think from leaving Madrid as a young boy we would achieve what we did together.”
De Gea leaves as a free agent after having made 545 appearances for United and two Premier League Golden Gloves to his name. EFE
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