Veteran Spanish goalkeeper David de Gea has opened up about the dramatic collapse of his high-profile transfer from Manchester United to Real Madrid in 2015, admitting that while the deal came close, he believes it failed for a reason. Speaking candidly in a recent interview with Italian outlet Cronache Di Spogliatoio, the current Fiorentina shot-stopper hinted that fate played a role in shaping his career path, ultimately leading him to find a home at Manchester United before moving on to Italy.
A Transfer That Shook the Football World
In the summer of 2015, De Gea, then at the peak of his powers, was on the verge of sealing a blockbuster move to Spanish giants Real Madrid. The deal was widely expected to go through, with De Gea eager to return to his homeland and Los Blancos viewing him as the long-term successor to Iker Casillas.
But as the hours ticked down on transfer deadline day, disaster struck. Despite a full agreement reportedly being reached between both clubs, the necessary paperwork failed to reach La Liga headquarters before the window slammed shut. The move collapsed in dramatic fashion, sparking a blame game between Manchester United and Real Madrid.
The failed deal sent shockwaves through European football, with fans, pundits, and club executives left stunned by the mishap. Real Madrid accused United of delaying the process, while United claimed that Madrid did not act swiftly enough.
Now, nearly a decade later, De Gea has broken his silence on the infamous saga.
“Things Happen for a Reason”
“I will speak about all of that when my career is over,” De Gea told Cronache Di Spogliatoio, choosing his words carefully. “When things don’t happen, it’s for a reason. It was close, but the transfer wasn’t completed… Personally, it went well because Manchester is my home.”
The 33-year-old’s comments reflect a sense of closure and contentment with how events unfolded. Despite the disappointment at the time, De Gea went on to enjoy a storied spell at Old Trafford, where he established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the world.
His words also suggest a maturity shaped by years of experience and reflection. Rather than dwell on what could have been, De Gea appears focused on the journey he took and the accomplishments that followed.
A Decade of Glory at Old Trafford
De Gea eventually signed a new deal with Manchester United shortly after the failed Madrid move and went on to become a mainstay in the team for the next eight years. Joining the Red Devils in 2011 from Atlético Madrid as a relatively unknown teenager, De Gea evolved into a club legend.
He made a total of 545 appearances for the Premier League side, becoming the highest-capped goalkeeper in the club’s history. During his time at United, he won the Premier League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and UEFA Europa League, while also collecting multiple individual accolades, including the club’s Player of the Year award on four occasions.
Known for his quick reflexes, superb shot-stopping ability, and humble demeanor, De Gea built a reputation as one of the top goalkeepers of his generation. Even during United’s turbulent post-Ferguson years, De Gea remained a consistent figure between the sticks, earning the respect of fans and critics alike.
However, by the end of the 2022–23 season, the winds of change had arrived. With the club undergoing a tactical transformation under Erik ten Hag and seeking a goalkeeper more comfortable with ball distribution, De Gea left as a free agent after 12 years of loyal service.
A Year in the Wilderness
Following his departure from Manchester United in the summer of 2023, De Gea faced a surprising reality—he remained without a club for the entire 2023–24 season. Speculation linked him to several teams across Europe and even to clubs in Saudi Arabia and Major League Soccer, but no move materialized.
The former Spain international maintained a low profile throughout this period, focusing on family life and training independently to keep fit. For a goalkeeper of his pedigree, the silence was uncharacteristic and puzzling to many fans. However, De Gea remained patient and focused.
A New Chapter with Fiorentina
In 2024, the long wait came to an end as Serie A side Fiorentina secured his signature. The move marked a fresh chapter for De Gea, who now finds himself in a new league and environment, aiming to help the Florence-based club compete at the highest level in Italy and Europe.
Fiorentina, who have shown ambition in recent years with their UEFA Europa Conference League participation and domestic resurgence, see De Gea as a marquee addition. His experience, leadership, and quality are expected to significantly bolster the team’s backline.
The signing also signals De Gea’s enduring commitment to top-level football, despite a challenging year away from the spotlight.
Looking Ahead
Though De Gea has hinted that he may share the full story of the failed Real Madrid transfer one day, his current focus is on the future. As he prepares for the new Serie A season with Fiorentina, fans will be eager to see how the Spanish veteran adapts to Italian football.
For now, his story serves as a powerful reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in football. A deal that once seemed destined to redefine his career instead became a footnote in a legacy shaped by resilience, professionalism, and consistency.
Final Word
David de Gea’s journey—from a blocked transfer to becoming a Manchester United icon, and now beginning anew in Italy—is one of persistence and poise. While many still wonder what might have been had he joined Real Madrid in 2015, De Gea himself has moved on, grounded in the belief that “things happen for a reason.”
With Fiorentina, he has another chance to write a new chapter—one that might yet add to the illustrious career of one of football’s most respected goalkeepers.
