Mizgan Masani
David de Gea gets the backing of Manchester United coach Benni McCarthy amidst criticism
Manchester United’s first-team coach Benni McCarthy has backed David de Gea amidst criticism and claimed that it would be a “crime” to let the Spaniard go this summer.
De Gea did not have a very good season, both with the ball on the feet and shot-stopping. He is generally one of the best when it comes to the latter, but the lack of application in the former is not making him look good in Erik ten Hag’s system.
After making a mistake for Manchester City’s second goal in the FA Cup Final, club legend Roy Keane went in on the 32-year-old and almost sounded fed up when saying that United need to sell him in the summer window.
But, here’s what McCarthy said when asked about de Gea and his future at Old Trafford (h/t 947 Joburg, via Manchester Evening News):
“He kept 17 clean sheets in the league. Yes, of course, you’re going to concede, but to win the Golden Glove for yet another season is remarkable.
“You see how difficult the league is so I understand that everyone has a bad game here and there, but it doesn’t stop him from being one of the best goalkeepers I’ve seen and I’ve worked with. He is unbelievable.
“I get to spend every single day with him and he is an unbelievable guy, a great lad, very intelligent and one of the best goalkeepers I have seen. It would be a crime if Man United lose a goalkeeper like David de Gea.”
There is no denying that de Gea played a big part in him winning the Golden Glove in the Premier League this season. But, had he been better, the clean sheet count could have been even higher.
Moreover, the fact that the Spaniard never looks comfortable on the ball, Ten Hag might lose patience with him very soon. The latter’s system revolves around playing out from the back through the lines.
In a way, for ten Hag to succeed at United, he must start taking the big decisions. Letting go of de Gea would be a good start.
The Red Devils are linked with Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa, who matches up with what the manager wants his goalkeeper to do. It remains to be seen if the Portuguese leaves his current club.
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The summer transfer window hasn’t started yet and a lot of things are already happening. United have to do well in this window to come out firing next season.
