On his return to Spain, David de Gea had a night to forget as Manchester United lost to Sevilla.
Manchester United were defeated 3-0 in Sevilla to crash out of the Europa League 5-2 on aggregate.
It was once again a case of United wilting in a tough away atmosphere. It is a big problem Erik ten Hag must solve.
Ten Hag’s problems were compounded by a poor performance from one of the most experienced players in the team, David de Gea.
Spanish press on De Gea
Once a regular for Spain, David de Gea has been overlooked for the national squad for the last two major tournaments.
Even with a new manager in charge, De Gea was not named in the recent squad. This latest performance in his homeland has probably killed off his remaining chances of a recall.
De Gea was woeful and contributed to all three goals Manchester United conceded. His poor display was noted in his homeland.
Mundo Deportivo wrote: “David de Gea lived a night to forget this Thursday at the Sánchez Pizjuán… (he) was the main actor in what ended up being the 3-0 win for the Seville team.”
The newspaper described the third goal as a ‘mess’ on the goalkeeper’s part.
AS suggested this disastrous performance will leave a lasting impression in Spain, writing: “He has had horrible nights but this one enters everyone’s collective memory.”
Marca referenced De Gea’s contribution to the first goal Manchester United conceded, noting that the goalkeeper played Harry Maguire into trouble with ‘a pass that was not clean’.
This was not the impression De Gea will have wanted to leave in Spain, and this could impact beyond the national team.
If Manchester United decide against renewing his contract, which would be sensible, he could end up looking for a new club in his homeland. The market may have got a little smaller after last night.