Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea doesn’t get the credit he deserves, according to ex-Red Devil Juan Mata.
United’s number one made his 500th appearance for the twenty-time league champions in yesterday’s goalless draw against Newcastle United at Old Trafford.
The 31-year-old registered his 170th clean sheet for the Reds in the stalemate against Eddie Howe’s Magpies.
Prior to the Premier League clash, which was Erik ten Hag’s first draw as United manager, De Gea was awarded a silver plate by Sir Alex Ferguson in recognition of making 500 appearances for the club.
The legendary Scotsman signed the Spaniard from Atletico Madrid 11 years ago, and apart from Phil Jones, who wasn’t registered in United’s 2022-23 Premier League squad, De Gea is the only other survivor from United’s 2013 title-winning side.
David de Gea doesn’t get the credit he deserves
De Gea’s contract expires at the Theatre of Dreams in June although United have the option of extending his deal by a further 12 months.
The Spain international, who has been United’s number one since joining the club, became just the 11th player to hit the 500 appearances landmark for the Reds.
Surpassing fellow goalkeeper Alex Stepney, who made 539 appearances for United, will no doubt be in De Gea’s sights.
Mata, who played 240 times alongside De Gea, has leapt to defence of his compatriot.
Praising De Gea on his Instagram story, United’s former number eight said: “Not always gets the credit he deserves, never complains, always keeps working.
“Proud of you, 500 games at Manchester United and many more to come. Legend.”
After leaving United as a free agent after nine-and-a-half years following his arrival from Chelsea in 2013, Mata joined Turkish giants Galatasaray on a free transfer in the summer.
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