David de Gea Quintana entered the professional football landscape in 2009 after rising through the academy system at Atlético Madrid. By 2011, his talent commanded a British record transfer fee of £18.9 million, marking his transition to Manchester United. He remains a prominent figure in global association football, having transitioned from Spanish youth ranks to international senior competition.
Early Career in Madrid
Born in Madrid in 1990, De Gea joined the Atlético Madrid youth system at age 13. He signed his initial professional contract in 2008 and moved through the club's B-team. His senior debut occurred in September 2009 during a Champions League match against Porto. By the conclusion of the 2009-10 season, he established himself as the first-choice goalkeeper, contributing to a UEFA Europa League victory and the UEFA Super Cup title.
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De Gea joined Manchester United in 2011, filling the position left by the retiring Edwin van der Sar. Over his tenure at Old Trafford, he made more than 500 appearances. His trophy collection with the club includes a Premier League title, an FA Cup, three Community Shields, two League Cups, and a second UEFA Europa League title. He earned the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award four times, including three consecutive seasons from 2013-14 to 2015-16.
International Representation
De Gea represented Spain across multiple youth levels, captaining the side that secured the European Championship in 2011 and 2013. He also participated in the 2012 Summer Olympics. His senior debut for Spain followed in 2014. He served as the starting goalkeeper during UEFA Euro 2016 and the 2018 FIFA World Cup, though he was later succeeded as the primary starter by Unai Simón prior to Euro 2020.
Fast facts
- Born: 1990, Madrid
- Citizenship: Spain
- Senior debut: 2009
- Manchester United transfer fee: £18.9 million
- Manchester United appearances: Over 500
- Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year awards: 4
Questions readers ask
Which major trophies did he win with Atlético Madrid?
He won the UEFA Europa League and the UEFA Super Cup in 2010.
How many times was he named in the PFA Team of the Year?
He was included in the PFA Team of the Year five times in total, specifically in four consecutive seasons between 2015 and 2018.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player
