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De Gea had been a free agent ever since Manchester United released him in 2023 before signing for Fiorentina last week.
David de Gea, the former Manchester United star who captivated fans with his remarkable performances over 12 years, has spoken candidly about his year-long hiatus from professional football and his recent move to Fiorentina.
Speaking at his Fiorentina unveiling, De Gea revealed that after his departure from Old Trafford, he faced a significant challenge in finding the motivation to commit to a new club.
The Spaniard, who is now 33, took a deliberate pause from the game to reassess his future.
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Despite receiving numerous offers, De Gea chose to wait for the right opportunity, which has now materialized with Fiorentina in Serie A.
De Gea, who was released by Manchester United at the end of his contract last year, admitted that the transition was tougher than he anticipated. “It’s true I haven’t played but I haven’t been idle,” De Gea said during his unveiling at Fiorentina.
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“I trained because I knew I would return one day. I never thought of retiring: I played 12 years in a very important club like United and my heart will always be there. However, it was difficult for me to find the motivation to face a new adventure.”
His candidness highlights the emotional and psychological challenges athletes face when transitioning between teams, especially after such a long and storied tenure at a single club.
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Despite his year off, De Gea remained dedicated to maintaining his fitness, training alone and staying in peak condition.
His patience paid off when Fiorentina reached out, sparking a swift resolution to his search for a new home. “I had many offers, but I wanted to play in Serie A. Fiorentina got in touch with Alessandro Ferrari and Daniele Pradè, and from that moment the negotiations were very fast. I always thought that Fiorentina was the best possible destination,” De Gea explained.
De Gea's decision to join Fiorentina marks an exciting new chapter in his career. The Serie A side has been eager to bolster their squad, and De Gea’s addition is seen as a significant boost.
With a one-year contract in place, he is poised to bring his extensive experience and high level of skill to the Italian league, where he aims to make a substantial impact.
With Fiorentina’s backing and De Gea’s determination, the upcoming season promises to be an intriguing one for the seasoned goalkeeper as he aims to make his mark in Serie A and continue his illustrious career in a new setting.
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