Former Manchester United great Patrice Evra has paid tribute to one of his former teammates who is set for a reunion with the Red Devils.
It is two years since Manchester United decided to part ways with goalkeeper David de Gea, deciding against renewing his contract.
This decision in 2023 was the right move, Manchester United needed a change. The decision to replace him with Andre Onana was a separate choice – which while disappointing, does not mean moving on from de Gea was wrong.
One thing United fans should all agree on was the cack-handed way the Red Devils handled De Gea’s exit, with the goalkeeper upset with the manner it was dealt with by then-manager Erik ten Hag and football director John Murtough.
De Gea took a whole year out of the game to reflect, before signing with Fiorentina in 2024, where he will continue in 2025/26.
David de Gea playing for Fiorentina
Photo by Image Photo Agency/Getty Images
David de Gea gearing up for another big season
David de Gea helped Fiorentina reach the Europa League Conference semi-finals last season, eventually defeated by ex-teammate Antony, on loan with Real Betis.
De Gea is aiming to come back even stronger, posting a video on his Instagram page with a slow-motion capture of one his renowned one-handed saves.
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De Gea’s impressive acrobatics got the nod from his former Manchester United colleague Patrice Evra, who was coming to the end of his time at Old Trafford while De Gea was getting started.
Evra replied to De Gea’s Instagram post, writing: “Hermano can play another 20 years easy.”
Patrice Evra response to David de Gea's Instagram post
Patrice Evra response to David de Gea’s Instagram post
De Gea has one last game at Old Trafford
Patrice Evra’s hopes for David de Gea are over the top, with the Spaniard already 34-years-old. Another five years is more realistic, instead of 20.
Yet it’s clear the year out of the game in 2023/24 has refreshed the goalkeeper mentally, and gave him time to pick his next project with Fiorentina.
His preparations for 2025/26 begin with a return to Old Trafford when Fiorentina visit Manchester United for pre-season.
It is a chance for De Gea to say a proper goodbye to United fans, an unofficial testimonial that he earned.
His latest video shows he is determined to put on a show, and demonstrate to the Red Devils what they are missing out on.