Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea has revealed that he almost joined Atletico Madrid for £18 million in 2011, after receiving criticism from the United fans.
The 23-year-old was heavily blamed for the goals during United the 2011 Community Shield as well as errors against Basle and Benfica in the Champions League.
Asked whether he considered leaving Old Trafford, De Gea said: “Sometimes.
“It’s difficult when you get a lot of criticism. But I kept strong.”
“What happened at the start helped me be the player and man I am now,” he added.
“When you have bad moments you have to improve. You have to become stronger to deal with it and I believe I have become stronger. I am much better now.”
The Spaniard has gone on to make 139 appearances for The Red Devils and helped them secure the League title 2013 and the Community Shield in 2011 and 2013.
Last month he broke into the Spanish national side and played 90 minutes during a 1-0 defeat to France.