Manchester United icon Rio Ferdinand has voiced his discontent with the club’s handling of goalkeeper David De Gea’s contract situation. The Spaniard’s current contract is set to expire on June 30.
Reports emerged stating that De Gea had agreed to a substantial pay reduction in order to sign a new contract. However, United subsequently withdrew their initial offer and presented a revised deal with an even lower salary.
Ferdinand has expressed his frustration at the club’s treatment of one of their key players. The former United defender is disappointed by the situation and critical of the way the club has handled negotiations with De Gea.
While speaking to the Youtube channel Five, he said:
“Whatever you think, David de Gea is good enough or not, that’s up for debate. He’s been an unreal servant to this football club. 12 years he’s been at this club, similar to what I was at this club. Player of the Year – four or five times in that time – he’s been phenomenal.”
“I’m just a little bit gutted. To be honest. With the way, the club have handled the David de Gea situation. I think you owe it to a player who’s been there that long to make sure that they love at half-decent terms at least.”
🚨 Rio Ferdinand on David De Gea
📝 David De Gea’s contract nears its expiry date with little certainty about his future at MUFC!
🗣️ @rioferdy5 talks on De Gea, Chelsea and much more in todays episode of Rio Reacts! pic.twitter.com/fhjRTGBNGn
— FIVE (@FIVEUK) June 29, 2023
Ferdinand’s assessment of De Gea’s contribution to Man United is accurate, highlighting his exemplary service to the club.
Over his 12-year tenure, the Spaniard has been honoured with the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award on four occasions, a record he shares with Cristiano Ronaldo.
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Despite not being in his prime anymore, the Madrid-born goalkeeper secured the Premier League Golden Glove last season. However, his occasional mistakes and discomfort with playing from the back have raised concerns for manager Erik ten Hag.
Ten Hag seeks a goalkeeper who can contribute to building play from deep, contrasting with De Gea’s preference for long clearances.
Andre Onana, who impressed during his time at Inter Milan, is being linked with a move to Old Trafford. Onana has a history of working with Ten Hag during their time at Ajax.
While De Gea has been a dependable option for United, the article suggests that it is time for someone else to take the club to new heights. The veteran shot-stopper will be remembered as a club legend and deserves to be treated with respect.
