Juan Mata backs De Gea’s Manchester United return as goalkeeper makes first start of the season
Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata expects team-mate David de Gea to have a smooth return to Old Trafford, with the goalkeeper making his first start of the season in Spain’s Euro 2016 qualifier against Macedonia this evening.
After the game De Gea, along with compatriot Mata, will fly to England on Wednesday to join the Red Devils in training.
The 24-year-old goalkeeper, who is under contract with United until next summer, saw a proposed £29 million move to Real Madrid collapse on transfer deadline day collapse after the two clubs were unable to complete the deal in time.
"De Gea is very well regarded at the club and by the coach (Louis van Gaal)," Mata said to Spanish sports newspaper Marca. "I believe everything will continue to be the same.
"From what I perceive, I don't think there is going to be any issue upon his return, neither from the club, the coach nor the fans."
De Gea moved to United in 2011 from Atletico Madrid and has made 131 appearances for the Red Devils since.
OFICIAL | Estos son los 11 elegidos para buscar la victoria ante Macedonia! ¡¡VAMOS!! #MantenemosLaPasión pic.twitter.com/snd22ggSN4
— Selección Española (@SeFutbol) September 8, 2015
"The fans love him a lot," Mata said of De Gea. "In the past two years David has been the best player in the team due to the saves he made and the many points those saves gave us.
"I have no doubt that this year is also going to be very good for him."
Mata has applauded De Gea's attitude throughout a summer in which the Madrid-born player has been the centre of transfer speculation.
"I've spoken to him a lot in recent days," Mata said. "It has been a busy time with a lot of stress, but he is such a calm person that he has managed to maintain his focus.
"Nothing changes him, he is going to continue to be the great goalkeeper he was."
De Gea has not played for United since a friendly against Paris St Germain on July 29.
ArticleMata backs De Gea’s Man United return as goalkeeper makes first startManchester UnitedDavid de GeaJuan MataJuan Mata backs De Gea’s Manchester United return as goalkeeper makes first start of the seasonSergio Romero ready to battle David De Gea for Manchester United starting spotImagePublishedMedium widthTuesday, September 8, 2015 - 19:25Back in action: De Gea starts for SpainOn