De Gea reveals his biggest United regret and how he made amends in style

Former Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has revealed his biggest regret from his spell at the club. De Gea’s United tenure De Gea departed United in July 2023 after a distinguished 12-year stint, during which he established himself as one of the finest goalkeepers in the club’s history. For a number of years, the Spaniard stood as the club’s standout performer, preserving their status at the highest level through a series of crucial, match-defining displays. He made 545 appearances for United and recorded 190 clean sheets – both club records for a goalkeeper. De Gea helped the Red Devils win the Premier League, FA Cup, UEFA Europa League and two Carabao Cups. In terms of personal accolades, he scooped up two Premier League Golden Glove awards, four Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year awards (voted by fans), and four Players’ Player of the Year awards. After leaving United, the 35-year-old spent one year as a free agent before he eventually signed for Fiorentina. After a stellar debut season with La Viola, this term has proven far more challenging as the side fights to avoid relegation. Fiorentina currently sit in 16th place, just two points above the drop zone. De Gea spoke to Gazzetta dello Sport and reflected on his time at Old Trafford as well as working with club legends like Sir Alex Ferguson and Cristiano Ronaldo. De Gea speaks On his sabbatical, the Fiorentina shot-stopper said, “It was an easy decision. After 12 years at United, I needed a break, so I took a year off to dedicate to my family and friends: it was the best year of my life. But I continued to train with a coach, Craig, who was very supportive and did a great job with me.” “I was sure I could compete at a high level again. When Fiorentina called me, I was ready. The first time I walked into Rocco B. Commisso Viola Park, I was speechless: there aren’t many facilities like it in Europe.” Asked to name his biggest regret and joy at United, De Gea answered, “We lost the Premier League in our first year when City took the title from us with a last-minute win despite our victory over Sunderland.” “I made up for it by winning it in 2012-13: every game at United was special.” He continued, “I owe a lot to Sanchez Flores, who brought me into the first team at Atletico when I was very young: with him we won the Europa League and the European Super Cup.” “Sir Alex wanted me at United, he was fundamental to me, like a father.” He said about featuring alongside Ronaldo, “Cristiano has something special. Everything about him is incredible: the way he works and takes care of himself, his diet. You don’t become the best by accident.” Meanwhile, United return to action on 13 April when they host Leeds United. Featured image Molly Darlington via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!