Veteran goalkeeper, David de Gea has announced his departure from Manchester United, expressing that it is the right time for him to undertake a new challenge in his career after he became a free agent as his contract with the Old Trafford club expired at the end of June.

In a heartfelt message shared on social media, De Gea conveyed his gratitude and appreciation to the Manchester United supporters. He wrote, “I just wanted to send this farewell message to all Manchester United supporters… Manchester will always be in my heart, Manchester has shaped me and will never leave me.”

The 32-year-old Spanish top-stopper joined Manchester United from Atletico Madrid in 2011 for a fee of £18.9 million.

Over the course of his 12-year tenure at the club, he made 545 appearances and kept 190 clean sheets, setting records for a goalkeeper.

His contributions were instrumental in the club’s success, including winning the Premier League, FA Cup, UEFA Europa League, and two Carabao Cups.

While the destination of De Gea’s next challenge remains uncertain, reports suggest that United are hopeful of securing a deal for Inter Milan goalkeeper Andre Onana. They have also been linked with Japanese-Ghanaian goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.

De Gea’s departure comes after a contract extension agreement between the player and the club underwent changes. Both parties subsequently decided to reflect on the situation, leading to the decision for De Gea to seek a new venture.

United manager Ten Hag lauded De Gea’s contributions, stating, “To have won Player of the Year awards from both the fans and his teammates, each on four occasions, shows the level of his performance, and he will always be remembered as one of the very best goalkeepers in the history of the club.”