'It was difficult' - David de Gea reveals why he took a year out after Manchester United release

David de Gea admits he initially found it 'difficult to find the motivation' to sign for a new club after he was released by Manchester United.

The Spaniard had spent 12-years at Old Trafford when his contract came to an end a year ago and he surprised many people by having a year out from professional football.

De Gea received many offers to join a new club after he left United as a free agent, but wasn't blown away by any proposal that came his way. The 33-year-old wanted to wait for the right opportunity before he made his return and has agreed an initial one-year deal with Serie A side Fiorentina.

Speaking at his unveiling, De Gea spoke honestly about his time away from the game and why it has taken him a year since leaving United to find a new club.

“It’s true I haven’t played but I haven’t been idle: I trained because I knew I would return one day," he told reporters. "I trained hard even if alone… I never thought of retiring: I played 12 years in a very important club like United and my heart will always be there. However, it was difficult for me to find the motivation to face a new adventure.

“I had many offers… but I wanted to play in Serie A. Fiorentina got in touch with Alessandro Ferrari and Daniele Pradè and from that moment the negotiations were very fast. I always thought that Fiorentina was the best possible destination.”