 Juan Mata says David de Gea's departure from Old Trafford represents a 'sad day' for Manchester United, while Marcus Rashford has wished his former team-mate well for his 'next step'. Manchester United news, exclusives and analysis Sign up Privacy Policy De Gea confirmed on Saturday that he is leaving United this summer as it is the 'right time to undertake a new challenge'. The Spaniard, who joined Manchester United in 2011, had been in talks with the club over a new deal for several months. But a contract extension failed to materialise, meaning De Gea ends his United career with 545 appearances and a record 190 clean sheets. De Gea's current and former team-mates have been quick to congratulate him on a brilliant Premier League career, with Mata saying he 'doesn't want to believe' the 32-year-old will not be at Old Trafford next season. 'I don't really want to believe it,' the ex-Manchester United midfielder posted on social media. 'The amount of times that you saved us… 'Always professional, always sticking up for the club you love, your home. You deserve the best. Sad day for Manchester United. Legend.' Rashford, meanwhile, said: 'You were here from my breakthrough, good luck with your next step brother.' De Gea has been a mainstay at Manchester United for over a decade but he was inconsistent last season, attracting criticism for some high-profile mistakes despite winning the Golden Glove award Confirming his departure from the Premier League giants, De Gea said: 'I would like to express my unwavering gratitude and appreciation for the love from the last 12 years. We've achieved a lot since my dear Sir Alex Ferguson brought me to this club. 'I took incredible pride every time I pulled on this shirt, to lead the team, to represent this institution, the biggest club in the world was an honour only bestows upon a few lucky footballers. 'It's been an unforgettable and successfu){kind=link}
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Juan Mata says David de Gea’s departure from Old Trafford represents a ‘sad day’ for Manchester United, while Marcus Rashford has wished his former team-mate well for his ‘next step’.
Manchester United news, exclusives and analysis
De Gea confirmed on Saturday that he is leaving United this summer as it is the ‘right time to undertake a new challenge’.
The Spaniard, who joined Manchester United in 2011, had been in talks with the club over a new deal for several months.