Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea has faced intense criticism this season for his error-prone performances.
David de Gea has made a number of high-profile errors throughout the season. And Manchester United legend Roy Keane believes that the Red Devils should look to get rid of the 32-year-old and sign a new goalkeeper if they want to win trophies.
“They need a new goalkeeper and world-class striker, I’m sick of saying it!” Keane said (h/t Manchester Evening News). “De Gea’s not good enough, he is not going to be the one to take United back to winning trophies.”
The Spanish goalkeeper was involved in a crucial error during Manchester United’s 2-1 defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup final on Saturday afternoon. Ilkay Gundogan scored both goals for Manchester City, and de Gea could have done better to prevent the second goal from the German international.
However, the Spaniard was slow with his movement, and he failed to stop Manchester City from taking the lead. His contract comes to an end this summer, and it will be interesting to see if Manchester United are willing to offer him a renewal. There have been rumours that he could sign a new contract with the Red Devils.
On the other hand, Manchester United continue to be linked with a number of goalkeepers. FC Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa is one of the names linked with a move to Old Trafford heavily. It will be interesting to see if Manchester United decide to invest in a new number one in the coming weeks.
There is no doubt that David de Gea is a club legend. But he is clearly past his best, and he needs to be replaced soon. Furthermore, his style of play does not fit into Erik ten Hag’s philosophy, either. The Dutch manager prefers goalkeepers with better distribution skills, and the Spaniard has come across as a square peg in a round hole.
The 32-year-old remains a quality shot-stopper. But that attribute is simply not enough to justify regular starts at Manchester United anymore. That said, de Gea could still be an important player for Manchester United as a squad option.
His winning mentality, experience and leadership qualities could prove to be invaluable for the Manchester United dressing room. It remains to be seen whether the Spanish keeper is prepared to renew his contract at Old Trafford without the guarantee of regular football.
