De Gea's message of support ahead of Arsenal
David De Gea will be keeping an eye on Manchester United's Premier League opener against Arsenal from afar, after thoroughly enjoying the emotional experience of being able to say goodbye to Old Trafford last weekend.
The Spaniard was keen to convey his thanks to the supporters who backed him through nine seasons at the club, showing their appreciation for his efforts by voting him Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year on four occasions.
The Snapdragon Cup clash with Fiorentina afforded the 34-year-old an opportunity to meet up again with United staff and enjoy his afternoon, and it was a pleasure to speak to him again inside the stadium he will probably always think of as home.
A fixture against the north Londoners conjures up memories for the keeper, including one amazing occasion where he made a joint-record 14 saves in a game at the Emirates Stadium, in December 2017.
He also saved a Robin van Persie penalty early into his United career, helping inspire an incredible 8-2 home triumph in 2011.
"It's my house so it was a bit emotional, of course," he told us. "It was two years without coming here so it was unforgettable, for sure.
"I wish them [United] all the best, as always with a club like this, with the fans. They deserve the best. It's been a period of struggles for a couple of years but what this club means for me, and everyone who loves this club, is jut unbelievable. I wish them all the best, as always."
De Gea admits that the win at the Emirates when he made those 14 saves was one of the finest of his 545 appearances for the Reds.
"It was a great game," he said. "I remember it very well, especially as we won that game [3-1 thanks to Antonio Valencia's opener and a Jesse Lingard brace].
"It was one of my best games, probably, in the shirt," he added. "But every game I played for this club has been sensational for me."
Fiorentina's Serie A campaign does not begin until Sunday 24 August, with an away game at Cagliari, following a game in the UEFA Conference League against Ukrainian side Polissya Zhytomyr.
When we asked if David would be cheering his former club on, in the 16:30 BST kick-off against Mikel Arteta's men, he was clear in his response.
"Of course," he stated.
"The first game is always special, in terms of playing at Old Trafford. Hopefully, United can beat Arsenal and start with three points."
Those in attendance in the home areas for the opener will be sharing that optimism, as Ruben Amorim's Reds look to begin 2025/26 with a bang.