David de Gea CONFIRMS Man Utd exit after 12 years in emotional post as gutted fans say ‘you’ll always be our No1’
DAVID DE GEA has confirmed his Manchester United exit in an emotional farewell.
The keeper departs Old Trafford after 12 years, in which he won the Premier League, Europa League and FA Cup.
His contract expired in the summer and there were talks of De Gea taking a pay cut to remain on United's books.
But as the club close in on signing Andre Onana from Inter Milan, the Spaniard has officially said his goodbyes.
He posted on social media: "I just wanted to send this farewell message to all Manchester United supporters.
"I would like to express my unwavering gratitude and appreciation for the love from the last 12 years.
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"We’ve achieved a lot since my dear Sir Alex Ferguson brought me to this club.
"I took incredible pride everytime I pulled on this shirt, to lead the team, to represent this institution, the biggest club in the world was an honour only bestows upon a few lucky footballers.
"It’s been an unforgettable and successful period since I came here. I didn’t think from leaving Madrid as a young boy we would achieve what we did together.
"Now, it’s the right time to undertake a new challenge, to push myself again in new surroundings.
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"Manchester will always be in my heart, Manchester has shaped me and will never leave me. We’ve seen it all."
United fans filled up De Gea's comment section following the touching message.
One said: "Thank you for everything and best of luck in the future."
Another added: "Once a red, always a red. Thank you for everything over the 12 years, best of luck at your next club!"
De Gea was signed from Atletico Madrid by Sir Alex in 2011 at the age of just 20.
Initially he struggled with the physicality of the Premier League, which led to speculation of a move away.
But De Gea proved himself as United's No1 and quickly emerged as one of the best stoppers in the world.
Manchester will always be in my heart, Manchester has shaped me and will never leave me.
David de Gea
He came close to leaving for Real Madrid in 2015 only for an error in the paperwork to scupper the deal.
De Gea would instead sign a new contract and captained United for the first time that season.
He is a four-time player of the year, winning it three times in a row from 2013-2016.
His form dipped last season as he entered the final year of his contract.
But De Gea had agreed to cut his wages from £375,000 to £200,000 per week - although a deal was never signed making him a free agent.
As revealed by SunSport, United did ask their ex-No1 to hold off joining a new club as they mulled over their options.
But they are nearing a transfer with Inter for Onana, who has already agreed personal terms.
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A second bid worth £43million has been lodged despite Inter holding out for £50m.
But with De Gea announcing his departure from Manchester it all-but confirms United will have a new No1.
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