David de Gea's unbelievable legacy at Manchester United

David de Gea leaves Manchester United a legend.

His consistent heroics have endeared him to the Old Trafford crowd just as much as the great shot-stoppers who have come before and his legacy with the Red Devils is undoubtedly one built on sublime performances, improbable saves and wondrous reflexes.

But it wasn't guaranteed to be this way. After having arrived from Atletico Madrid in 2011, De Gea was expected to adjust to life in England seamlessly. If he was good enough for Sir Alex Ferguson, he was good enough for Old Trafford.

However, the first few years of De Gea's time in Manchester were far from smooth sailing. The Spaniard's erratic displays and frequent errors shone a dazzling spotlight on him, one which could have blinded the youngster. He struggled to cope with the increased physicality and pace of English football and it almost sunk him. High-profile gaffes early in his United career put immense pressure on his shoulders, but the weight didn't prove too much for De Gea.

De Gea lifted the Premier League title during the 2012/13 season, regularly featuring in Ferguson's line-ups. He even found himself in the PFA Team of the Year at the end of the campaign, albeit there were still question marks over the consistency and quality of his performances in crucial moments.

I just wanted to send this farewell message to all Manchester United supporters. I would like to express my unwavering gratitude and appreciation for the love from the last 12 years. We’ve achieved a lot since my dear Sir Alex Ferguson brought me to this club. I took incredible… pic.twitter.com/6R7ezOEf1E

While discussion continued to surround De Gea's quality, the Spaniard was slowly but surely improving the aspects of his game that were weakest. His