David De Gea is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in world football right now while there is no doubt that the Spaniard is ‘the’ best in the Premier League.
Over the past couple of seasons, the shot-stopper has helped Manchester United won games on his own – a trait only the best the in the world posses. But on Friday, De Gea had a rare lapse of concentration when he let slip a Cristiano Ronaldo left-footer which eventually crept into the back of the net.
And immediately after the game, a flurry of fans were quick to compare the keeper’s lapses with that of Loris Karius’ from the Champions League final.
Karius also made two childish errors during Liverpool’s Champions League final against Real Madrid which many might argue cost Jurgen Klopp’s men a genuine shot at the trophy.
But let me tell you why David De Gea’s mistake should not be compared with that of Karius.
Or rather David De Gea himself shouldn’t be compared with the Liverpool No 1.
After Liverpool were beaten, Karius collapsed on the pitch and wouldn’t get up for quite some time. And once he got up, he immediately went over to the fans with folded hands and tears in his eyes.
Now, I am not saying these things are bad. On the contrary, these things are a sign that you love your team. But it also shows how mentally fragile you can be.
But David De Gea showed none of that after Spain’s 3-3 draw against Portugal.
In fact, he has managed to keep a bold face and has stood up to the criticism.
After the match, the Spain No 1 said that he fully knew what he had done and it was just another part of the game.
“I like that there are criticisms,” he said. “Diego Costa has also been criticised and he scored two goals. I haven’t killed anyone, either. I’m happy with the national team.
“I don’t see much that they support me from Spain. My own criticism is bad enough. I am happy with the support from the manager and the lads.
“This can happen. It’s a mistake. We put on our gloves and go out into the field and we know how difficult it is. I count on the support of the coach and my colleagues to continue. I will stay calm. It was a difficult ball, I’ll keep training and try to do things right. I haven’t killed anyone.”
Spain take on Iran in their next Group B encounter on Wednesday.
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