‘Upset’ ex-United man would be open to surprise return to Old Trafford – but only if Erik ten Hag has left

There’s no love lost between David de Gea and Erik ten Hag following his Manchester United exit debacle that occurred this time last year. 

The Spaniard bid farewell to United after a 12-year stay between the sticks when his contract expired in June 2023.

However, he was kept in limbo regarding his future for the months leading up to his terms ending, as well as for a short period after. As a result, he didn’t formally announce his exit until July and was, therefore, unable to have a proper goodbye with the Old Trafford faithful in his final season.

Reports at the time suggested United were willing to keep De Gea on – even as a second-choice goalkeeper – so long as he reduced his £375,000-a-week wages. The board tabled a proposal on lesser terms, which he signed off on before they pulled out of the prospective deal.

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It’s thought that Ten Hag was adamant about acquiring a shot-stopper of his own choosing, eventually opting for another ex-Ajax representative in the form of Andre Onana.

Meanwhile, De Gea, who was left ‘upset’ by the manner of his departure, is yet to find a new club after a full year of being a free agent. He’s been linked with plenty of suitors across the past 12 months, though none have tickled his fancy as of yet.

The Athletic revealed this week that an unnamed Premier League club approached the experienced veteran regarding a potential return to the top flight, but he made it clear that he had no desire to play for another English club besides United.

De Gea leaves door ajar for United return

While that prospect may be ruled out on United’s end, De Gea has left the door open on his. He has told close confidantes that he’d be open to the prospect of returning to the Reds one day, but only on the condition that the two senior figures who botched up his exit, Ten Hag and John Murtough, were no longer at the club.

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Murtough, of course, stepped down from his role as football director shortly after Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s minority stake was ratified. On the other hand, INEOS chiefs did ultimately decide to keep Ten Hag at the reins long-term after conducting a lengthy end-of-season review.