really broke into tears of joy today, I didn’t know the fans still loves me this way, I really wanted to be here but Ten Hag made His choice”, David de Gea reveals what Bruno Fernandez did today that made him remember the past

The Theatre of Dreams lived up to its name today, not because of a last-minute goal or a dramatic victory, but because of an emotional moment that brought tears to the eyes of one of Manchester United’s greatest servants — David de Gea. The legendary goalkeeper, who spent over a decade guarding United’s goal, returned to Old Trafford and was met with a reception that left him speechless.

De Gea, who left the club last year after Erik ten Hag opted for a change in the goalkeeping department, admitted that he still carries the pain of his departure. “I really broke into tears of joy today,” he said, his voice filled with emotion. “I didn’t know the fans still loved me this way… I really wanted to be here, but Ten Hag made his choice.” It was an honest confession from a player who gave everything to the badge, yet had to watch his beloved club move on without him.

The source of his overwhelming emotion was a surprise orchestrated by none other than club captain Bruno Fernandes. Ahead of the game, Bruno invited De Gea to the stadium, telling him little about what was planned. As the Spaniard emerged from the tunnel, he was stunned to hear a thunderous roar from the stands. Thousands of fans stood on their feet, chanting his name in unison, while banners proudly read: “Our Wall – Our Legend.”

Then came the most touching moment of all. Bruno presented De Gea with a framed Manchester United jersey, signed by the entire squad, with the heartfelt message: “Once a Red, Always a Red.” The two embraced in front of the roaring crowd, and for a moment, time seemed to stop. Cameras captured the tears streaming down De Gea’s face, as chants of “Viva De Gea” echoed around the stadium.

For the goalkeeper, it was like stepping back into his glory days — the acrobatic saves against Chelsea, the penalty heroics in Europe, the countless times he turned defeat into victory with his reflexes. “It reminded me of the past… the love, the passion, the magic. It’s something money can’t buy,” De Gea said afterwards, clearly still moved by the experience.

The history between De Gea and United is long and filled with highs and lows. Signed in 2011, he grew from a shaky young talent into one of the best goalkeepers in the world. He lifted multiple trophies, won the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award a record four times, and became a symbol of loyalty during some of the club’s most difficult years post-Sir Alex Ferguson.

Yet, despite his legacy, Ten Hag decided to part ways with the veteran, citing the need for a goalkeeper better suited to his tactical style. That decision split opinion among fans — some understanding the manager’s vision, others feeling De Gea deserved the chance to finish his career at Old Trafford. Today’s scenes showed where the majority stand: in full admiration of their former No.1.

As De Gea stood on the pitch, Bruno’s arm around his shoulder, the image perfectly captured what football is all about — not just contracts, transfers, and tactics, but the bonds that last long after the final whistle. This was more than a tribute; it was a reaffirmation of respect, friendship, and the unshakable connection between a player and the fans who adored him.

When asked about his relationship with Bruno, De Gea smiled warmly. “Bruno has always been a leader, on and off the pitch. What he did today… it’s something I will remember for the rest of my life. He didn’t just make me feel like a part of the club again — he reminded me that I never truly left.”

As he walked off the pitch, still clutching the framed jersey, De Gea turned to wave one last time to the supporters. The ovation followed him all the way into the tunnel. For a man who thought his chapter at Manchester United was closed, today felt like a special epilogue — one written by the fans and sealed with love.

“Sometimes you think people forget,” De Gea reflected. “But today, I know they didn’t. My heart is full.”