Newcastle United goalkeeper Martin Dubravka has lifted the lid on why he signed for Manchester United on loan last summer.
The Slovakian completed a move to Old Trafford in Erik ten Hag’s first-ever transfer window as United boss, as he looked to provide competitive backup to David de Gea.
He went on two make just two appearances between the sticks in the third and fourth rounds of the Carabao Cup, which the Reds went on to win against his parent club.
On his decision to sign for the Red Devils, Dubravka said (via Chronicle Live): “For a player that used to play every week, it is not easy to find yourself in a different situation. I was (on his return in January) just trying to create the competition for my colleagues.
“That is my mentality and I will never do anything to stab them in the back. I am still part of this club and I am very proud of that. Some fans might look at me going to Manchester United last summer and not understand why. They don’t see my situation from my perspective.
“I was just trying to find a position where I could play. Any of them who would be in my position they would probably make the same decision. In the last few months, I have been back at my ‘home club’ and I always feel very welcome here. The fans are incredible.”
Dubravka’s return to Tyneside
Midway through the season, Dubravka opted to return to the Magpies and end his loan spell prematurely, forcing United to acquire Jack Butland as his replacement.
Since being back at St James’ Park, he made three further appearances; as a substitute against Liverpool following Nick Pope’s red card, a third-round FA Cup tie against Sheffield Wednesday and the final game of the Premier League campaign versus Chelsea.
