“Premature decision”: Former United assistant was upset Ten Hag allowed top player to leave

Former Manchester United assistant coach Mike Phelan suggests David de Gea’s exit was a mistake.

One of Erik ten Hag’s boldest transfer decisions as United manager was letting De Gea depart Old Trafford in 2023, bringing an end to his 12-year stay in Manchester.

De Gea was a fan favourite at United, having made a club record 545 appearances for a goalkeeper. During that period he also became the goalkeeper with the most clean sheets (190) for the Mancunians.

As such, not many expected the Spaniard to leave the club at the age of 32, and that too as a free agent.

Phelan, who was part of United’s coaching staff under Sir Alex Ferguson as well as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, also didn’t expect De Gea to part ways with the Premier League giants.

Speaking to Firenze Viola (via Sport Witness), Phelan, who was at the club when United signed De Gea from Atletico Madrid, revealed: “No, it doesn’t surprise me [that De Gea moved to Italy]. If anything, what surprised me was that he decided to leave Manchester United in the summer. Or rather that United did not confirm him. It was a bit of a premature decision in my opinion.”

When asked if the Spain international’s exit is a “regret” for the Red Devils, Phelan said: “Yes, it is. I was very sad that he left. I have worked with David since the beginning of his career and I think he is a very serious professional, someone who works hard every day he goes to the field to train.”

Despite his stature, it wasn’t easy for De Gea to find a suitable club following his departure from United. He had to wait for over a year before Fiorentina came calling, handing him an opportunity to ply his trade in Italy in 2024.

The 34-year-old has so far enjoyed life in Florence, raising many eyebrows with his phenomenal saves. He earned plenty of plaudits for saving two penalties against AC Milan earlier this campaign.

Having said that, as far as United are concerned, De Gea’s absence hasn’t been felt.

Ten Hag’s decision to replace the veteran with Andre Onana has paid dividends, with the ex-Inter Milan star impressing fans and pundits alike with his composure in possession and sharp saves.

No goalkeeper has earned more clean sheets (5) than the United number 1 in the Premier League this season.