When it comes to shot-stopping, few goalkeepers in modern football can rival the brilliance of David De Gea. Known for his lightning-fast reflexes and near-impossible saves, De Gea has single-handedly kept Manchester United in countless matches. Let’s dive into some of the best saves that have defined his stellar career.
1. De Gea vs. Arsenal (2017)
In a thrilling 3-1 victory at the Emirates, De Gea pulled off an astonishing 14 saves, equaling the Premier League record. His most jaw-dropping moment came in the 56th minute when Alexandre Lacazette thought he had scored, only for De Gea to dive low, stretch out his leg, and block the shot. Moments later, he denied Alexis Sánchez with a double save that left Arsenal fans stunned.
2. De Gea vs. Liverpool (2014)
Old Trafford witnessed one of De Gea’s finest performances against fierce rivals Liverpool. The Spaniard made a string of brilliant stops, including an extraordinary save from Mario Balotelli’s close-range effort. De Gea’s quick reaction and strong hand pushed the ball onto the crossbar, preserving United’s clean sheet and securing a crucial victory.
3. De Gea vs. Chelsea (2012)
In a 3-3 draw at Stamford Bridge, De Gea showcased his shot-stopping prowess by denying Juan Mata from a curling free-kick in stoppage time. With the ball heading for the top corner, De Gea leapt and stretched his fingertips to tip it over the bar. That save cemented his reputation as one of the best young goalkeepers in Europe.
4. De Gea vs. Real Madrid (2018)
In a pre-season friendly, De Gea once again proved his worth by making an incredible one-handed save to stop Marco Asensio’s powerful shot. Even though the game was a non-competitive fixture, it was a clear reminder of De Gea’s elite reflexes, as he adjusted his body mid-air to keep the ball out of the net.
5. De Gea vs. Everton (2021)
During a dramatic 3-3 draw against Everton, De Gea denied Dominic Calvert-Lewin with a point-blank save that showcased his incredible reflexes. Despite the chaos in the box, De Gea stayed calm, reacting quickly to the striker’s shot with an outstretched leg, keeping United in the match.
Conclusion
David De Gea’s legacy as one of the world’s finest goalkeepers has been defined by moments of pure brilliance. His agility, focus, and world-class reflexes have made him a key player for Manchester United and an unforgettable figure in football history. Whether it’s in the Premier League or on the international stage, De Gea’s best saves remind us of his unparalleled shot-stopping ability, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
David De Gea’s best saves aren’t just about stopping goals – they’re about defying expectations and making the impossible seem routine.
