David de Gea is ‘proud’ to play for Fiorentina and admits it was ‘not easy’ to ‘evaluate offers’ after leaving Manchester United, so he took a sabbatical.
De Gea has moved to the Stadio Franchi on a free transfer, signing a one-year deal with an option for a further campaign.
He left Manchester United in 2023 but didn’t play for any other club last season.
The Spaniard held his first press conference as a new Fiorentina player today, Monday, August 12, at the club’s training centre, Viola Park.
His very first words were in Italian: “I am proud to wear the Viola shirt and to represent Florence. Thank you all,” he said as quoted by Violanews.
“I want to thank the technical staff. It was a different year than usual. I decided to take a sabbatical, but I continued training alone. I had to be at my best, and when Fiorentina arrived, I had clear ideas,” he continued.
“They have great fans and a great history. It was an easy decision; I didn’t want to retire. Fiorentina have had great players and goalkeepers. I want to be part of the club’s history, help the young players, and have a winning mentality.
De Gea: New Fiorentina signing explains why he took a sabbatical after Man Utd exit
“I spent a year in Manchester before returning to Madrid. I wanted to stay at a high level. I didn’t stop. It’s not easy to train alone. I spent two years in Manchester, it’s my home. That’s where my heart is set. It was difficult for me to find motivation to evaluate offers, so I decided to take a sabbatical,” added the Spaniard.
“I am fit, I trained every day, even more than before. I am on a good level. Perhaps it will take some time in the first games, but I’ve been playing for many years, so you just need to put me in goal.”
Why did he choose Fiorentina?
“I received many offers, but I wanted to play in Italy. Pradé and Ferrari made it all easier, the parties had the same desire. The negotiation was simple, Fiorentina were the best option.
“I didn’t talk much to the coach, but I know what he expects from us keepers. He likes to attract pressure and go between the lines; he is a brave coach.
“We must work harder and harder. I like to work with young players, and I want to help them as much as I can. I’ve trained with Leonardelli, and he told me that it’s a dream to work with me. Many people wanted to see me return to action, which is a good sign.”
What are his targets in Florence?
“I want to help the club in everything. I am here to give 100% and improve the team. This is what I can promise,” he said.
“Serie A is one of the best leagues in the world and I can’t wait to meet everyone. We must immediately focus on the Parma game. We can dream of winning trophies and reaching our targets.”
De Gea’s move to the Stadio Franchi may push Pietro Terracciano towards Monza, but the Italian is currently still part of the team.
“He’s a bit younger than me, but competition is always good,” said De Gea.
“It must not be easy to play, there must be other players ready to challenge.”
During his stay at Manchester United, De Gea, 33, won one Premier League title, one UEFA Super Cup, one FA Cup, and two Europa League titles, among other trophies.
He made 415 Premier League appearances with the Red Devils, keeping 148 clean sheets.
What are the chances of him dropping a clanger or like Varane, getting crocked in the 1st 30 minutes?