Almeida stated that De Gea was not at fault, considering the fact that he is not one of the players usually tasked with the responsibility of taking a penalty.
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Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has recently drawn criticism, after missing a penalty in the Europa League final against Villarreal. De Gea’s inability to slot the penalty home saw the English giants record a defeat in an intense game that had an exciting end in store for fans. However, the Spaniard has received support in this tough situation from fellow keepers. Brazilian goalkeeper Jordi Almeida who plays for Portuguese club FC Pacos de Ferreira is one of them.
Almeida stated that De Gea was not at fault, considering the fact that he is not one of the players usually tasked with the responsibility of taking a penalty.
“I saw the Europa League final in Brazil, and firmly believe that the Spaniard is not at fault for missing the penalty. He is not the player who is usually tasked with that responsibility. It was a mistake that can happen in the case of other goalkeepers as well,” he said in an exclusive interaction with SportsLumo.
The Brazilian was full of praise for De Gea, terming him as a top keeper. Almeida further hailed the Spaniard as someone all the goalkeepers would love to emulate.
“De Gea is a great goalkeeper. I consider him an inspiration as well as an example for other young keepers from all corners of the world, to emulate.”
The Brazilian further urged one and all to remain cool and calm, when tasked with the responsibility of taking a crucial penalty.
“I believe that one should certainly be very clear mentally in such moments which can potentially determine the final result. Players at that level have a responsibility to maintain high intensity and a top performance.”
Almeida is very excited about the upcoming Champions League final between Manchester City and Chelsea. The former will be making their maiden appearance in a final of the elite tournament. Both teams have exciting keepers in Ederson and Edouard Mendy.
“All the hard work and intensity behind the scenes during the course of the season, will reflect on the pitch. Both the goalkeepers are very reliable and I would certainly be confident about them putting their best foot forward.”
Almeida is backing fellow Brazilian Ederson’s Manchester City for the final.
“I believe the Cityzens will be favourites as they enjoy a strong team, and boast of great chemistry having played together for a long time. A 3-1 win in their favour would be the final result in my opinion.”
