Ole Gunnar Solskjaer lauded David De Gea describing him as the best goalkeeper in the world after helping Manchester United secure a dramatic comeback win against Villarreal in Wednesday’s Champions League at Old Trafford.
Having kicked off Group F with a shock late 2-1 defeat at Young Boys, United were facing the prospect of a third straight home defeat in all competitions after Paco Alcacer deservedly put Villarreal 1-0 up.
De Gea had prevented the opener coming sooner with some outstanding saves to deny Villarreal, against whom he missed the crucial penalty against in the Europa League final loss in Gdansk back in May.
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The Spaniard continued to shine after Alex Telles’ exquisite volleyed leveller, with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring in the fifth and final minute of stoppage time to seal 2-1 triumph.
“It was a very difficult game against a very good team,” Solskjaer said.
“First half we had lots of possession but they counter-attacked really well, transition attacked quickly and created some big, big moments in the game.
“Thankfully we had the best goalkeeper in the world . David was fantastic. Very happy with his performance.
“Second-half they had more of the ball, it was still open and they deserved to lead.
“But Old Trafford is magic – Champions League at Old Trafford, sometimes that history can help us.
“Tonight Cristiano of course came up with a good goal and Alex scored a fantastic goal.”
Asked about De Gea’s impressive performance as his fine start to the season continued, Solskjaer added: “You’re probably right that he had a difficult summer after that (Europa League final).
“Of course he went to the Euros, didn’t play there, but he’s really come back with a determination and a belief and a work rate that I’ve enjoyed… he saved us, we have to be realistic and say that.
“Of course we’ve got two good keepers with Tom (Heaton) and Dean (Henderson) as well, but today David deserves, for me, man of the match.”
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COMMENTS
I remember how much of a basket this guy was when he arrived newly at the club (and for a further while thereafter). Look how he’s grown through the years – thanks to eexposure and patience / confidence in him. Yet Maduka who won GK of the season, haven quickly earned the no 1 shirt within 3 months, in his first taste of top-flight football (in a rated Eredivise) and continues his learning curve is who some folks are clamoring to be axed as SE no 1… As if there’s even any clearly better by half a mile alternative for the SE at the moment