Man Utd hero ‘takes gap year then casually comes back as highest-rated player in Europe’ after Old Trafford exit
DAVID DE GEA has enjoyed a stunning return to form with Fiorentina after a YEAR away from the pitch – and now has the stats to back it up.
The former Manchester United star is the highest-rated goalkeeper in Europe’s top five leagues this season.
The decision to let long-term servant De Gea depart on a free transfer and replace him with £41m-recruit Andre Onana was bold.
And now De Gea’s exploits in Italy are starting to raise further question marks on Erik ten Hag’s decision.
The Spaniard, who spent 12 seasons at Old Trafford, had to wait 446 days to enter the pitch again.
Fiorentina placed their trust in him during the summer, securing his services on a one-year contract.
So far, the Serie A side’s move has proven to be a masterstroke.
In fact, De Gea’s rating of 7.61 makes him the highest rated goalkeeper in Europe this season, according to match ratings site WhoScored.
De Gea has been putting in brilliant displays for the Florence-based outfit on a regular basis.
He saved two penalties to help Fiorentina seal a memorable 2-1 win over AC Milan before the international break.
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De Gea got down low to his left to save Theo Hernandez’s first-half spot-kick before superbly diving to his right to prevent Tammy Abraham scoring his penalty in the second half.
The 33-year-old also made an incredible save to deny Samuel Chukwueze’s strike from rattling the net.
As per WhoScored, he has made 4.3 saves per game in Serie A so far this term.
And fans were quick to comment on De Gea’s new rating.
One user wrote: “Bro casually took a gap year and came back the highest rated keeper as if he’s in high school .”
A second said: “Man United are kicking themselves right now for letting him go.”
Another added: “And we dumped him for Onana .”
A fourth declared: “Forget playing it out from the back. There is something to be said about just being a good shot stopper.”
While one more said: “One of the best goalkeepers ever. A United legend.”
Meanwhile, Onana has shown promise this campaign, but he is yet to establish himself as a reliable figure between the sticks.