The former Manchester United defender cannot see the Spanish shot-stopper sticking around to play second fiddle to Dean Henderson at Old Trafford.
Rio Ferdinand believes David de Gea’s time at Manchester United may be drawing to a close, with the former defender tipping the Spaniard for a summer exit after losing his role in the team to Henderson.
This season we’ve seen a change between the sticks, with De Gea – a four-time Player of the Year at United – looking unlikely to be first choice next season.
Aged 30, it shouldn’t be difficult for De Gea to find a new club even if the most expensive signings are put on hold during the pandemic.
Ferdinand feels De Gea may be left with little choice but to say goodbye to United after 10 years in England, telling BT Sport: “You’ve got two options: you fight for your position or you say, ‘that’s me done, I’m off and I’ll go somewhere else.’
“If Dean Henderson finishes the season as No 1, I don’t see De Gea staying there. No chance, I don’t see it. I think he’ll go out now.
“His wages will be a determining factor but at the end of the day, two No 1s doesn’t work.
“De Gea has been a mainstay in the team but Ole is maybe seeing things differently now.
“He’s put Henderson in front of him in the queue. Does De Gea accept that and stay? I don’t think so.
“Henderson has been waiting for this opportunity. Now the pressure is on him. Can he live up to the hype? I’m excited for him and looking forward to see [sic] what he can do. Solskjaer has seen something in him but he has to perform now. It’s okay being No 1 at Sheffield United, but it’s a different kettle of fish at Manchester United.
“David will be supporting his team-mate but when he gets home, his pride and ego will be hurting, and if it’s not, he shouldn’t be here. He’s in the prime of his career and he wants to play every week.”
"Two number 1's it's as simple as that." 👀
Dean Henderson starts a premier league game for Manchester United, taking the number one spot. 1️⃣
If you were De Gea would you be looking to leave, or stay and fight? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/sMcmL0WU9s
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) April 4, 2021
The big question is where could De Gea end up this summer? Real Madrid already have a long-term option in Thibaut Courtois, but the rumours won’t disappear.
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