Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea created history with the club on Sunday evening as he eclipsed the long-standing clean sheet record of Peter Schmeichel.
The Spaniard recently produced a fantastic goalkeeping display against Leicester City. He made two world-class saves before United went on to secure a comfortable 3-0 win.
In the process, the 32-year-old equalled the club’s all-time clean sheet record (180) held by Schmeichel and he took just one more appearance to surpass the legendary Dane.
De Gea could not have dreamt of a better occasion than the Carabao Cup final. The €15 million-rated star was vigilant between the sticks, making two key saves against Newcastle United.
The Spaniard is now officially United’s record holder for the most number of shut-outs and he will be aiming to carry on the good work as the club look to win more trophies this term.
The Carabao Cup success ended a six-year trophy drought and the players must refocus immediately with a crucial FA Cup fifth round tie coming up against West Ham United on Wednesday.
A few days later, they face arch-rivals Liverpool in the Premier League at Anfield before entertaining Real Betis at Old Trafford in the first leg of their Europa League round of 16 tie.
Hence, celebrations should be put on hold for the time being. De Gea is likely to start every game from now until the end of the season and will be key to United winning more trophies.
Meanwhile, United have not exercised the 12-month option to extend De Gea’s deal beyond this summer but talks are underway over a new long-term contract with a reasonable pay-cut.
In our opinion, it is a no-brainer decision to prolong his stay. De Gea has shown an improvement with his passing and mobility in the box and deserves to see out his career at United.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
