David De Gea’s former goalkeeping coach has launched a scathing, full-scale attack on Manchester United boss, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer\u00a0and his team, in defence of the Spanish goalkeeper.<\/p>\n
De Gea has been under fire for a considerable period of time in the last campaign, after losing his place in the United senior team before taking back between the sticks for the Europa League\u00a0final but failing to save a single penalty in a tense shootout.<\/p>\n
De Gea missed the crucial penalty against Villarreal after all on-field takers had been exhausted, and heavy criticism has poured in ever since regarding the Spaniard’s future in the side.<\/p>\n
Gabino Rodriguez, who worked with De Gea as his coach at Spain U21 level, has come forward in defence of\u00a0 the goalkeeper and attributes the blame to Ole Gunnar Solksjaer’s tactics and a poor defence which is inadequate at protecting the goalkeeper.<\/p>\n
Speaking to the Sun, Rodriguez said: “I always believe the team is a true reflection of the character of its coach. Look at the one led by Sir Alex Ferguson and that would show no mercy.<\/p>\n
“Ole\u2019s team is softer than a muffin and David is suffering the consequences of the defensive frailties.<\/p>\n
“You need to protect your best asset in the team, but there is just an uncontrolled mess between midfield and defence with gaps.<\/p>\n
“Basically Ole\u2019s team has a brutal defensive weakness. The two centre-backs are too slow, they are not commanding and other teams are well aware of it.<\/p>\n
“The big problem is Solskjaer\u2019s tactical organisation. United\u2019s defensive deficiencies are undervaluing De Gea and Ole just doesn\u2019t convince me.”<\/p>\n
Rodriguez further highlighted how the current team is much different to that of the iconic sides of yesteryear, with the team of present dah lacking players of grit and determination.<\/p>\n
In a parting swipe at Solskjaer, Rodriguez went on to highlight how he sees veteran striker Edinson Cavani as the best defender at the club, despite the tens of millions Solskjaer has spent on his back line and the world record acquisition of Harry Maguire.<\/p>\n
Rodriguez added: “In the old days, Roy Keane and Paul Scholes not only dictated games, but did the dirty work and were the defensive backbone.<\/p>\n
“In Ole\u2019s team, Edinson Cavani is the best defender!”<\/p>\n
De Gea has been linked with moves back to Spain this summer, along with reported interest from Paris Saint Germain.<\/p>\n
The 30-year-old is United’s top earner star, believed to pocket in the region of \u00a319.5million per year.<\/p>\n
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