David de Gea has starred for Manchester United over several seasons, but the Spain international feels he has hit new heights in 2017-18.
As the Red Devils toiled in the wake of Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement, the 27-year-old remained a model of consistency as he became the first man to land three successive Player of the Year awards at Old Trafford.
He has seen big-money additions help to lift some of the burden on his shoulders, but he remains a standout performer and is on course for a first Golden Glove after keeping 21 clean sheets across the current campaign.
De Gea was also named on the six-man shortlist for the PFA Player of the Year award, while making the Premier League Team of the Year for a fifth time.
Quizzed by Premier League Productions on whether he considers this to have been his best season to date, United’s reliable last line of defence said: “Yeah, I’m pretty pleased with my performance. It’s been a fairly complete, all round set of performances from me.
“I’ve felt good, felt fit and in good form physically throughout the season. Let’s hope that these last few games to go before the end of the season continue the form, then leading into the World Cup, which is an important time for Spain.”
De Gea’s efforts in 2017-18 have helped United to edge their way towards a runner-up finish in the Premier League and to within touching distance of more major silverware in the FA Cup.
Progress is being made at Old Trafford, with Jose Mourinho having returned a “winning mentality” to the squad following difficult spells under David Moyes and Louis van Gaal.
“We’ve got a great manager,” De Gea added.
“He’s very experienced, he’s won everything there is to win in the game. What he is really good at is transmitting his winning mentality to the group.
“However, at the end of the day, it’s down to ourselves – the players on the field. It is us who make the saves, create the chances and score the goals. So, as a group, we’ve got to get that level of consistency and quality throughout the season.”
De Gea has been able to maintain his standards, with his 17 shut-outs in the English top-flight leaving him two clear of Manchester City’s title winner Ederson in the race to secure Golden Glove honours.