De Gea lauded for retaining ‘hunger’ after Manchester United exit

Former goalkeeper Alex Manninger has praised David De Gea for maintaining his competitive edge.

Recall the Spanish goal tender departed from Manchester United two years ago, and had to remain without a club for over a year.

Now playing for Fiorentina in Serie A, De Gea has impressed with his performances, including four clean sheets in eight matches.

Manninger, who has experience with clubs such as Arsenal, Fiorentina, and Juventus, discussed De Gea’s impact on RadioFirenzeViola.

He said, “He’s an experienced keeper. He took a sabbatical, and it worked well.

“He still has the hunger, which is essential to a goalkeeper. You must have a great keeper to be up there in the table.”

The former Austria international noted De Gea’s technical skills, saying, “You can tell he comes from the Spanish school.

“He’s very prepared technically. Spanish coaches work well with keepers, and you can see his technique in every intervention.”

With De Gea, Fiorentina have secured five consecutive wins, placing them in contention for Champions League qualification with 22 points, level with Lazio and Atalanta.