De Gea can't wait for high intensity Leeds game

The experienced goalkeeper started for United in our memorable 6-2 win against Leeds in December 2020 and is excited at the opportunity to play a part in another occasion to remember as fans return to Old Trafford for the new campaign.

“Everyone is eager and excited to get another new season under way,” the 30-year-old told us.

“We’ve been able to get a good pre-season in, and well, it all starts right now. We have to be at one hundred per cent and give everything we have in every game.

“Starting with me, and with everyone in the squad, we all have to give absolutely everything, and really be at it, on the top of our game, going all out to achieve big things and win trophies. Because that is what this club deserves.”

Aside from a couple of exceptions over the last 18 months, Old Trafford has been empty but for the shouts of players and coaches and the screams of commentators.

That the first game to be played at a full Old Trafford will be against Leeds makes the occasion even more mouth-watering, and De Gea agrees.

“I could tell what it was like already against Fulham last season when I think there were 10,000 or so in and it felt almost like a full house!” De Gea said.

“The fans were really happy to be there and so excited to go to the stadium and support the team.

“It’s absolutely vital for us to have the fans there right behind us. Driving us on and giving their support every minute of the game. Let’s hope we can make them really happy this season.”

As for Saturday’s opposition, De Gea expects a tough challenge.

“It’s a brand new season and the first game is always a tough one,” he began, “you don’t know what sort of form your opponent will be in.

“It will be totally different to last season’s home game against Leeds. It was a great win against Leeds, such a big rival who we’d not come up against for such a long time. But that’s all in the past now. This will be another film script this weekend.

“We already know how Leeds play. They are a team with a very high intensity game, who go at it one hundred per cent for the entire ninety minutes. They’re a tough and durable team but we’re playing at home with our fans behind us, we’ll be well up for it and let’s hope we perform well and get the right result.”