David de Gea celebrated his 400th appearance in Manchester United colours on Monday evening, making him the club’s all-time record holder, for the most games played by a foreigner.
Such a landmark is worthy of celebration, particularly in the 21st century, where loyalty has become quite the rarity in the modern-game. It’s only taken the Spaniard nine seasons to reach this number too, having established himself as the club’s number one choice between the sticks since arriving back in 2011.
Although his early days at Old Trafford were met with diversity and criticism, De Gea soon flourished into a world-beater. He has been one of the most consistent performers in the post Sir Alex Ferguson era, and he isn’t planning on going anywhere, anytime soon.
Speaking to United’s official site about his landmark, he stated: “I’m very, very proud to reach 400 games. It’s something amazing just to be part of this club. It’s something crazy, imagine to reach 400 games, it’s something very, very special for me and hopefully I can play another 400 games and just enjoy things day by day and enjoy being part of this club.”
Embed from Getty ImagesDe Gea’s willingness to ‘play another 400 games’ highlights just how happy he is at Old Trafford, having also signed a long-term deal back in September. It was a four-year extension on the goalkeeper’s contract, meaning he is tied to the club until 2023.
Although speculation has been mounting about Dean Henderson potentially occupying Dave’s no.1 spot in the side, De Gea is far from fazed. His focus simply remains on representing the club, further saying: “I just want to keep playing and enjoying training and enjoying being with my team-mates and the staff and everyone. I just enjoy wearing the Manchester United shirt in every game and to play at Old Trafford is always special.”
The Spaniard is a happy man under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and he won’t be leaving Manchester anytime soon. Should Henderson want to establish himself as the new number one at United, he will need to do enough to convince the manager to demote David de Gea.
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