Pranav Nair
Solskjaer offers Manchester United superstar David de Gea no guarantees ahead of Europa League final
According to the Mirror, Manchester United manager, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has refused to give David de Gea any promises regarding his participation in the Europa League final.
The Spanish international put up an incredible performance in what was eventually a 3-2 loss to Roma in the second leg of the semifinals. Thankfully, United had done the job in the first leg and we broke our last four hoodoo.
The result, however, could have been much worse if not for De Gea. The 30-year-old saved a number of attempts on the night. In fact, it can be argued that the one goal loss did flatter United a bit.
Solskjaer too was effusive in his praise for the goalkeeper at full-time. Given what he had said then, it comes as a surprise that he could potentially drop De Gea for the showpiece event in Gdansk.
“I’ve got to make difficult decisions before the final – but I feel I’ve got to make very difficult decisions every time I pick a team.”
The Norwegian believes sentiment will not play a role in his team selection as United look to end their four-year trophyless run. While that is a fair approach, it would be petty to claim the Spaniard does not deserve his place in between the sticks.
Been there, seen that!
While Dean Henderson may have usurped him as the club’s first choice, De Gea has largely started in Europe when available.
“We’re Man United and we should have competition for every single spot in the team.”
Solskjaer made a similar choice regarding Sergio Romero last season. The Argentine was a key part of the side that made it to the semifinals keeping seven clean sheets in nine games. He was unceremoniously dropped for the semifinals as United crashed out of the competition.
Whether Solskjaer will undertake a similar approach remains to be seen.
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Whether it be on the basis of merit or otherwise, De Gea has played a major role in our run-up to the final. Denying him the opportunity to take to the field would be a cold but poor choice by the United manager.
