David de Gea has made headlines again, this time as Fiorentina’s penalty-saving hero. In a thrilling Serie A encounter against AC Milan, the Spanish goalkeeper demonstrated his brilliance by saving not one but two penalties, securing a vital win for his team. After a year out of action and a challenging end to his Manchester United career, De Gea’s resurgence in Italy has reignited his status as one of the best goalkeepers in the world.
This article dives deep into De Gea’s standout performance, his journey to Fiorentina, and how he has become a key player for the club.
De Gea’s Incredible Performance Against AC Milan
In one of the most dramatic matches of the Serie A season, Fiorentina faced off against AC Milan, with both teams eager to secure crucial points. The match was a tense affair, but it was De Gea’s heroics that ultimately made the difference. The first of his two penalty saves came just before halftime, when he denied Theo Hernandez’s well-placed shot. Guessing the right direction, De Gea stretched out to push the ball away, keeping his team’s lead intact.
Fiorentina manager Palladino on David de Gea saving two penalties vs AC Milan: “Trust me, he’s still a monster. He’s a top, world class player”.
“We can see why he’s a champion, a real one. We should thank him every day, he’s a top goalkeeper and a role model”. pic.twitter.com/zihHMnarYM
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 7, 2024
The second save was even more remarkable. In the second half, former Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham stepped up to the spot, determined to level the score for AC Milan. But De Gea, confident and composed, dived the opposite way this time, using his outstretched arm to block the shot. His strong one-handed save electrified the crowd and secured Fiorentina’s advantage.
From Struggles at Manchester United to Success in Serie A
De Gea’s penalty-saving prowess at Fiorentina is a stark contrast to his time at Manchester United, where he struggled to stop penalties for years. Famously, he went seven years without a Premier League penalty save before breaking the drought against West Ham’s Mark Noble. The low point came in the 2021 Europa League final, where De Gea failed to save any of Villarreal’s penalties during the shootout, leading to Manchester United’s defeat.
After his departure from United and a year-long spell as a free agent, many wondered if De Gea could reclaim his top form. In August 2024, Fiorentina took a chance on the Spanish keeper, signing him on a one-year deal with an option for an extension. It seems their faith has been well-placed, as De Gea’s recent performances have been nothing short of spectacular.
A Penalty Specialist in the Making?
Since joining Fiorentina, he has already saved three penalties, showcasing his growing expertise in these high-pressure situations. His first came in the Europa Conference League qualifier against Puskas Akademia, where his save sent Fiorentina through to the next round. His two saves against AC Milan are further proof that he is becoming a true penalty specialist—something that eluded him for much of his Premier League career.
The transformation in his penalty-saving ability could be attributed to several factors. A year away from competitive football may have allowed him to reset mentally and physically, giving him the focus needed to perform at his best. Additionally, the change of environment in Italy, along with the support of Fiorentina’s coaching staff, might be exactly what he needed to regain his confidence and form.
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The Impact of De Gea’s Saves on Fiorentina’s Campaign
De Gea’s contributions have had a significant impact on Fiorentina’s season so far. His penalty saves in the match against AC Milan were crucial in ensuring Fiorentina’s 2-1 victory. The win not only earned them three vital points but also lifted the team’s morale as they aim to compete for a top spot in Serie A and advance in European competitions.
With his experience and skill set, De Gea brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to Fiorentina’s squad. Former Juventus goalkeeper Rubinho recently commented on De Gea’s performances, praising his quick adaptation to Italian football despite being out of action for over a year. “De Gea is a top goalkeeper, and his saves remind me of legends like Toldo and Frey,” Rubinho stated. Such endorsements from respected figures in the football community highlight De Gea’s growing influence in Serie A.
Fans and Pundits React: De Gea’s Redemption Arc
De Gea’s resurgence at Fiorentina has not gone unnoticed. Fans have quickly embraced the Spanish shot-stopper, celebrating his heroic saves and contributions. On social media, clips of his penalty saves against AC Milan have gone viral, with many praising his agility and composure.
Italian pundits have also weighed in, noting the significant impact De Gea has had since joining the club. Former Fiorentina goalkeeper Gianluca Berti expressed optimism about De Gea’s role in the team, stating, “He’s a goalkeeper who needs no introduction. His performances so far prove he’s still among the best, and he’s only going to get better.”
This renewed form has led some to question if he can become one of Serie A’s best goalkeepers. While it’s still early in the season, his performances have already made a strong case for that title. With Fiorentina aiming to compete on multiple fronts, having a reliable and experienced goalkeeper like De Gea could be the key to their success.
What’s Next for De Gea and Fiorentina?
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on David de Gea to see if he can maintain his impressive form. Fiorentina’s management and fans alike will be hoping that his penalty saves against AC Milan are just the beginning of a standout season. With European and domestic campaigns underway, De Gea’s experience and leadership could be instrumental in guiding Fiorentina to their objectives.
For De Gea himself, this season presents an opportunity to silence critics and prove that he still has plenty to offer at the highest level of European football. If he continues to deliver match-winning performances, Fiorentina may very well offer him an extension beyond his current one-year contract.
