Manchester United had started the new Premier League season in dismal fashion, losing back-to-back games against Brighton and Brentford.
The hammering at the hands of the Bees was due in part to David de Gea as he was directly responsible for three of the four goals conceded on the day.
The Spaniard had left after the game and apologized personally and accepted that he was to blame for his team’s poor performance. Coach Erik ten Hag supported his goalkeeper and insisted that “I am convinced that he can do it.”
ddg problems
The Dutchman is known for his penchant for playing from behind and expects his goalkeeper to be able to initiate attacks and be quick from his line.
???? #mufc is considering activating David de Gea’s contract option as they assess their long-term plan. Jordan Pickford has the clubs closely monitoring his situation at Everton. [@mcgrathmike]
— UtdDistrict ???? (@UtdDistrict) September 24, 2022
The Spaniard is a great goalkeeper, but he’s not the most skilled when it comes to playing from behind and his propensity to stick to the line is another mitigating factor.
Another issue with the 31-year-old is his massive salary which is reportedly in excess of £350,000 a week, making him one of the top earners at the club.
So unconvinced was the Dutch manager that he forced the club to bring in Martin Dubravka on loan as competition for the former Atletico Madrid goalkeeper.
In the midst of this fight comes the news published by The Daily Telegraph that “Manchester United are weighing whether to activate David de Gea’s contract option”. The Spanish international has nine months left on his contract.
DDG out, Pickford in?
His form, coupled with the rise in United’s salary bill, which “reached a Premier League record £384m last season”, have been cited as the reasons behind the Red Devils’ hesitation.
United have the option of activating a one-year extension, but they are aware they can get a cheaper alternative that “will earn significantly less given current market values”.
Jan Oblak was mentioned as a possible replacement with his contract with Atletico Madrid also due to end in 2023. Dean Henderson could also be in line to become the new number 1 if he continues to perform at Nottingham Forest.
The report mentions that De Gea can still salvage the situation. “Her form of him in the next phase of the season is an opportunity to make a convincing case to stay.”
The article makes another revelation by stating that the Old Trafford side are “currently assessing their long-term plan and a number 1 change could bring England and Everton’s Jordan Pickford into the frame”.
The Everton goalkeeper has returned to form and his contract situation with the Merseyside outfit means that many clubs, including United, are keeping a close eye on his situation.
