De Gea could make it back on the Old Trafford pitch. Man Utd news: David de Gea’s return confirmed as Andre Onana savaged by Red Devils icon
David De Gea Set for Heartfelt Old Trafford Return as Manchester United Prepare for High-Stakes Bilbao Battle
Manchester United are gearing up for a defining moment in their season as they face Spanish side Athletic Bilbao in the first leg of the Europa League semi-final. With a spot in next year’s Champions League hanging in the balance, Thursday’s match could shape the club’s future more than any domestic result has.
With their Premier League form falling short of expectations and financial flexibility limited, United’s hopes now rest on a successful European campaign under manager Rúben Amorim. The clash in Spain is not just a shot at silverware but a potential gateway back to elite European football.
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De Gea to Return for Farewell Fixture
In more uplifting news, club legend David De Gea is scheduled to make a symbolic return to Old Trafford this summer. The Spanish goalkeeper, currently with Fiorentina, will face his former team in a pre-season friendly on Saturday, August 9 — his first appearance at the stadium since departing in 2023.
Jason Wilcox, United’s Technical Director, emphasized the importance of the fixture in building momentum for the 2025/26 season, stating: “This game gives the squad essential match experience at Old Trafford. It’s a meaningful moment, especially with David returning — a player who gave so much to the club.”
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Teddy Sheringham Critiques Andre Onana
While excitement builds around De Gea’s return, current United keeper Andre Onana is facing backlash from ex-striker Teddy Sheringham. The club icon urged Onana to stay focused on performance rather than public disputes, following a recent spat with former teammate Nemanja Matic.
“I understand the pressure,” Sheringham said. “But sometimes it’s best to stay quiet and let your performance do the talking. It’s not about what you say — it’s about what you deliver on the field.”
The criticism adds fuel to the pressure already on Onana ahead of Thursday’s critical fixture.
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Amorim Challenges Players to Make Bilbao a Turning Point
Manager Rúben Amorim, speaking ahead of the semi-final, encouraged his squad to channel their resilience from the comeback win over Lyon into another moment of brilliance.
“Sometimes, one night can change everything,” Amorim said. “That win against Lyon meant a lot, and now we have the opportunity to create something even greater in Bilbao.”
With United’s season on the line, the match in Spain offers a final shot at redemption — and a chance for some players, including the recently reintegrated Amad Diallo and Matthijs de Ligt, to
prove their worth on the big stage.
