David de Gea

On September 9, 2023, David de Gea announced his retirement from international football. Having been part of the Spain national team setup since his debut in 2014, he played in major tournaments including the World Cup and European Championship. His decision to retire came after an illustrious club career and a notable presence on the international stage, marking the end of his era with La Roja.

David de Gea departed Manchester United on July 1, 2023, after 12 years with the club. His contract, which expired earlier in the summer, was not renewed following a period of speculation around his future. De Gea left as United's longest-serving first-choice goalkeeper and with several individual awards and team accolades, marking the end of an era at Old Trafford for the Spanish international.

David de Gea was Spain's starting goalkeeper during the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Although Spain had a turbulent tournament, being eliminated in the last 16 by hosts Russia in a penalty shootout on July 1, 2018, De Gea started all four matches. The experience underscored a challenging defensive time for Spain, with De Gea criticized for some mistakes, yet he remained one of the world’s top goalkeepers in talent.

David de Gea was awarded the Premier League Golden Glove for the 2017–18 season on January 5, 2018. This accolade was given to him after he kept an impressive 18 clean sheets during the campaign, playing a pivotal part in ensuring Manchester United finished second in the league. This marked a personal milestone for De Gea, underlining his status as one of the top goalkeepers in world football.

On May 24, 2017, David de Gea was part of the Manchester United squad that secured the UEFA Europa League title by defeating Ajax 2–0 in the final held in Stockholm. This victory completed the club's achievement of winning every major honour available to English clubs. Although Sergio Romero was the starting goalkeeper for the tournament, De Gea played a key role in advancing the team through the league's stages.

David de Gea won his first FA Cup with Manchester United on May 21, 2016, after a 2–1 extra-time victory over Crystal Palace. This victory came under manager Louis van Gaal, bringing a distinguished close to what was a challenging season for the team. De Gea's impressive goalkeeping was crucial throughout the competition, leading to this major triumph at Wembley Stadium in London.

After a summer transfer saga with Real Madrid that fell through due to paperwork issues, David de Gea signed a new four-year contract with Manchester United on September 11, 2015. The new deal included an option for a fifth year, ending speculation over his immediate future. De Gea expressed his happiness to continue at Old Trafford and committed himself to the club, focusing on the season ahead.

David de Gea claimed his first Premier League title with Manchester United on May 22, 2013, under the management of Sir Alex Ferguson. The club won the league with four games to spare, ending the season with a total of 89 points. De Gea's performances in goal were instrumental to United's success, earning himself a spot in the PFA Team of the Year for his excellent displays between the posts.

On June 29, 2011, David de Gea signed with Manchester United for a contract worth around £17.8 million, making him the second-most expensive goalkeeper at the time. He was acquired as a potential successor to Edwin van der Sar. De Gea had established a considerable reputation at Atletico Madrid, winning the 2010 UEFA Europa League and the 2010 UEFA Super Cup before moving to England.