David de Gea receives standing ovation on Old Trafford return with Fiorentina

Overview

• David de Gea made an emotional return to Old Trafford on August 9, 2025.
• He played for Fiorentina against his former team, Manchester United, in a pre-season friendly.
• He said there was no bitterness about how he left the club two years ago.

David de Gea made an emotional return to Old Trafford on August 9, 2025. He played for Fiorentina against his former team, Manchester United, in a pre-season friendly. The match ended 1-1 in regular time. United won in the penalty shootout.

In 2023, De Gea was ready to extend his contract. But he left the club after 12 years of service. United replaced him with their current first-choice goalkeeper, Andre Onana.

Also Read: Manchester United’s Garnacho close to Chelsea move

After the match against United, De Gea said there was no bitterness about how he left the club two years ago.

"No. Sometimes football is like it is, you can't control everything. I've been here [Man United] 12 years, very, very nice, it's one of the best periods of my life. Playing for this club is just unbelievable, especially when you leave the club, you realise how big is the club, how difficult it was to be 12 years in a club like United. I'm always grateful for this club, for everyone, it's been an amazing journey. It's been a long time since I've been back here so it's been a special day, of course," he said.

"Fiorentina gave me the opportunity to play" - David de Gea 

In 2024, he signed for Fiorentina as a free agent. He recently agreed to a three-year contract extension with the Italian club. He also revealed that after leaving Old Trafford, he thought about retiring.

"There's always these things coming to your mind but I was feeling good, I trained again, I was feeling ready to go again," De Gea said. "Fiorentina gave me the opportunity to play. I'm feeling very, very good there. It's like a family, I'm feeling great, the city is amazing, the club is great. You see today we can play against top teams like United, so hopefully this year we can make something special as well."

Also Read: Bayern humble Spurs 4-0; Kane strikes against former club

Before the match, United gave their former goalkeeper a warm tribute. The whole crowd gave him a standing ovation. United captain Bruno Fernandes then presented him with a special painting to honour his 12 years of service and achievements with the club.