Will De Gea Start? Analyzing Manchester United's Goalkeeping Situation Before Athletic Bilbao Clash

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Post on May 02, 2025

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Will De Gea Start? Analyzing Manchester United's Goalkeeping Situation Before Athletic Bilbao Clash

The question on every Manchester United fan's lips ahead of the pre-season friendly against Athletic Bilbao is: will David de Gea start? The Spaniard's future at Old Trafford remains uncertain following the expiration of his contract, leaving a fascinating goalkeeping conundrum for manager Erik ten Hag. This pivotal pre-season clash offers a crucial glimpse into the team's strategy and the potential pecking order between the sticks.

De Gea's Uncertain Future and the Search for a New Number One

David de Gea's departure marks the end of an era. For over a decade, he served as a stalwart between the posts, accumulating numerous accolades and establishing himself as one of the Premier League's top shot-stoppers. However, concerns about his distribution and suitability for Ten Hag's possession-based style have fueled speculation surrounding his replacement. The club's pursuit of a new goalkeeper, potentially Andre Onana, further complicates the situation and throws De Gea's starting position into significant doubt.

Potential Starters and the Goalkeeping Depth Chart

While De Gea's absence from the squad's recent training camp has fuelled speculation, several scenarios are plausible for the Athletic Bilbao game.

• Scenario 1: De Gea Starts: A starting appearance could signal a last hurrah or a surprise change of heart regarding contract negotiations. Ten Hag might be assessing De Gea's fitness and form one last time before making a final decision.

• Scenario 2: Onana Makes his Debut: The arrival of a new signing often signals a shift in the starting lineup. If Onana's transfer is finalized, he'll likely be eager to make an immediate impact, showcasing his skills and potentially securing the number one spot.

• Scenario 3: Tom Heaton Gets the Nod: The experienced Tom Heaton provides a reliable backup option. His inclusion in the starting lineup would suggest a cautious approach from Ten Hag, allowing him to evaluate the other keepers while giving the team stability.

The Importance of Pre-Season Friendlies in Goalkeeper Evaluation

Pre-season friendlies are not just about results; they're crucial opportunities for managers to assess their players. For Ten Hag, this Athletic Bilbao game presents a valuable chance to:

• Evaluate Goalkeeping Distribution: The manager can scrutinize the keepers' ability to initiate attacks from the back, a key element of his tactical philosophy.
• Assess Defensive Organization: The interplay between the goalkeeper and the backline will be under intense scrutiny.
• Gauge Decision-Making Under Pressure: Friendly matches, while less intense than league games, still provide valuable insights into how keepers react under pressure.

Conclusion: A Pivotal Game for Manchester United's Goalkeeping Future

The Athletic Bilbao clash holds immense significance for Manchester United's goalkeeping situation. Whether De Gea starts or not, the game will provide crucial insights into Ten Hag's plans for the upcoming season, shedding light on the club's future between the posts and the long-term strategy to solidify the team's defensive capabilities. The performance of each goalkeeper will undoubtedly influence the upcoming transfer decisions and shape Manchester United's season prospects. All eyes will be on Old Trafford to witness this pivotal moment in the club's history.