Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has chastised his sloppy teammates this season, and has urged anyone who does not want to be a part of Erik ten Hag’s rebuilding project to ‘simply go.’
On the last day of the season, the Red Devils ended a disastrous season with a 1-0 loss away at Crystal Palace in front of their new Dutch boss.
United avoided playing in the Europa Conference League next season because to West Ham’s defeat against Brighton, but they still ended 11 points behind fifth-place Arsenal and 13 points from the Champions League places.
In an interview, De Gea gave a candid assessment of United’s 2022 season, saying he wants to forget about the season and focus on the difficulties that await those who want to stay at the club come August.
‘It’s the same sensation,’ said the Spain international.
‘The level we’ve shown in the previous three or four months isn’t good enough to win a Premier League match; we were sloppy, we dropped several simple balls around our box; it’s difficult to win games at this level.’
‘All I want to do now is be optimistic and forget about this season.’ The fact that the new manager [ten Hag] was in the stands was a good indication.
‘I’m hoping things will improve for next season, but that is already in the past.’ We all know how horrible this season has been for everyone.
‘Those who don’t want to stay can just go.’
‘And for those of us who truly want to stay at the club and fight for the club, let us have a decent rest during the summer, prepare ourselves mentally and physically, and be ready to battle again next season.’
Last week, Sportsmail learned that the club is planning a summer player clearout, with up to ten first-team players ready for sale.
In his first interview as United manager, Ten Hag extended a lifeline to the club’s underperforming flops, but cautioned that good ‘would not be good enough’ during his time in charge at Old Trafford.
When asked about United’s prospects, Ten Hag remarked, “First, accept the current circumstances, but remember that one year ago, this club, this squad was second in the Premier League.”
‘There is potential, and it is now up to us to realize it.’ It will take time, but I am confident that we will get at a position where we will be successful. We must work diligently and with the correct concept and plan.
‘I’m genuinely looking forward to completing this work, at this historic club that we want to restore to its rightful place.’