David de Gea turned in a goalkeeping performance so dominant Sunday that it created a social media sensation. As De Gea stopped everything that came his way #DaveSaves became a huge worldwide trending term. Numerous memes and graphics honored the valiant effort of David de Gea as he almost single-handedly brought Manchester United a 2-1 victory over Everton.
But it was almost someone else in goal Manchester United facing the attack of the Toffees.
David de Gea admits he thought about leaving Old Trafford a couple years ago, but is really glad that he decided to stay.
“Sometimes,” De Gea said when asked whether he ever thought about leaving.
“It’s difficult when you get a lot of criticism like I did. But I kept strong and I always tried to remain positive.
“Those early days were difficult for me and my family. But when you play for a big club like Manchester United (being criticized) is normal when you don’t play well.”
“What happened at the start helped me be the player and man I am now,” he said.
“When you have bad moments you have to improve. You have to become stronger to deal with it and I believe I have become stronger. I am much better now.”
Flash forward to today and David de Gea has a whole lot to be excited about after the clinic he put on this past Sunday.
“It was probably one of my best performances for Manchester United. I was really happy about that,” De Gea said.
“Games like that helps your confidence grow.”
Here he is talking about it, with the fellow co-man of the match Angel Di Maria. (And here’s a link to the footage of all those great David de Gea saves)
Paul M. Banks owns, operates and very often writes The Sports Bank.net ,which is partners with Fox Sports. Read his features stories in the Chicago Tribune RedEye edition. Listen to him on 1620 The Zone. Follow him on Twitter (@paulmbanks). His work has been featured in hundreds of media outlets including The Washington Post and ESPN 2