Man Utd fans fear De Gea could leave after emotional tribute to Mata

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Manchester United fans are fearing the worst over David de Gea's future after his emotional tribute to Juan Mata ahead of the midfielder's departure.

The Spanish playmaker has called time on his eight-year stint at the club where he made 285 appearances in all competitions. The 34-year-old's contract expires this month and he has opted to look for a new club, with the club slashing their wage bill.

There had been murmurs that the former Chelsea star could walk straight into a coaching role, but the veteran star is not prepared to end his playing days just yet. It will be a blow for Erik ten Hag to lose the midfielder due to his close connections in the dressing room.

One of his closest friends at United was De Gea, with the goalkeeper especially emotional over the loss of Mata. He even posted a fitting tribute to his countryman on his Instagram page to hail his departing friend.

“Thought this would be a very difficult one to express into words but when I thought about it more, the main feeling I am left with is happiness,” he wrote. “This guy has been a teammate, a friend and is my family. The ultimate professional, one of the best players and people you could have grace your life.

“I’m so thankful to have been on so many journeys with you, happy that our paths crossed, and we shared a dressing room together. I love you my brother, I wish you everything and absolutely nothing but joy and success in your next stage of an unbelievable career.”

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But a group of United fans have taken it as a signal from the 31-year-old that his own Old Trafford career is in doubt. One fan said: "Mannn i’m over here thinking De Gea’s leaving too." And another wrote: "You’re one person that deserves something from this United team. I hope this season we can at least get a trophy, because I’m so sure you’ll be leaving very soon."

"Dude wants to leave," another said while this supporter was close to begging with this reply: "Please don't even think of to leave, you are currently our best player, keep Ronaldo aside. You are a legend already."

Despite their fears, it is very unlikely that De Gea will leave this summer despite interest from the likes of Real Madrid and Juventus in the past. The Spanish stopper was named United's Players' Player of the Year for a record fourth time and was ever-present for the Red Devils in 2021-22. Instead, Dean Henderson looks on his way out with Newcastle hot favourites to snap him up as a result of being unable to dislodge the Spaniard from the United first-team.

• Manchester United FC
• David de Gea
• Premier League

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