David De Gea’s performance in Fiorentina’s dramatic Europa Conference League qualification was exceptional. The 33-year-old goalkeeper, making his return to professional football after an 18-month break following his departure from Manchester United, was instrumental in his team’s success. Despite Fiorentina being reduced to nine men, De Gea’s heroics included eight crucial saves and a decisive stop in the penalty shootout, leading Fiorentina to a 4-3 victory and securing their place in the finals.
This display was a remarkable turnaround from his previous disastrous debut for Fiorentina, where he conceded two goals, including a penalty, in the first leg of the qualification match. During his tenure at Manchester United, De Gea struggled with penalty saves, stopping only four out of 33 attempts in the Premier League, with a notable nine-year drought before finally saving one in 2021.
De Gea’s recent performance has demonstrated his quick reactions and resilience, earning him a 9.5 rating and endearing him to Fiorentina fans. Despite facing criticism towards the end of his Manchester United career, his recent heroics have reaffirmed his world-class ability and legendary status in the Premier League, highlighted by his record-breaking 14 saves in a 2017 match against Arsenal.David De Gea’s exceptional performance for Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League qualification showcased his remarkable resilience and goalkeeping prowess. At 33 years old, De Gea made a triumphant return to professional football after an 18-month hiatus following his departure from Manchester United. His efforts were pivotal in Fiorentina’s 4-3 victory in the penalty shootout, securing their place in the finals despite being down to nine men. De Gea made eight crucial saves during regular play and a decisive stop in the shootout, earning him a 9.5 rating and winning over the Fiorentina fans.
This outstanding display came after a challenging debut for Fiorentina, where he conceded two goals, including a penalty, in the first leg of the qualification match. At Manchester United, De Gea had a mixed record with penalties, saving only four out of 33 attempts in the Premier League and enduring a nine-year drought without a penalty save until 2021. However, his recent performance for Fiorentina reminded fans of his world-class talent, recalling moments like his record-breaking 14 saves in a single match against Arsenal in 2017. De Gea’s resurgence at Fiorentina demonstrates his ability to bounce back and reaffirm his legendary status in football.
