De Gea's 'magical moment' in return to Man Utd for Fiorentina clash

Manchester United wrapped up their pre-season with a 1–1 draw against Fiorentina at Old Trafford, winning 5–4 on penalties.

The night, however, belonged as much to returning legend David de Gea as it did to the football.

Fiorentina started brightly, taking the lead inside eight minutes when Simon Sohm capitalised on hesitant defending to head home from a corner.

United responded midway through the first half as Bruno Fernandes’ whipped cross forced an own goal from Robin Gosens.

From there, the game was evenly contested, with flashes of United’s new attacking combinations—Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo in particular showing sharp movement—but also the defensive lapses that have troubled them in recent seasons.

The match went to penalties, with goalkeeper Altay Bayındır saving Fiorentina’s fifth spot-kick. Midfielder Kobbie Mainoo coolly slotted home the winning penalty, giving United a confidence boost ahead of their Premier League opener against Arsenal on August 17.

Earlier in the day, United unveiled their latest signing, Benjamin Šeško, to the crowd. The £73.7 million striker did not feature, but his arrival adds further firepower to Ruben Amorim’s reshaped attack.

Yet, for many inside Old Trafford, the highlight was the emotional return of David de Gea.

Making his first appearance at the stadium since leaving in 2023, the 33-year-old received a standing ovation and a special presentation from captain Fernandes before kick-off.

Visibly moved, De Gea described it later as a “magical moment” and thanked supporters for their unwavering affection, reported ManUtd.com.

The Spaniard, who made 545 appearances for United and won multiple trophies across 12 years, admitted in a recent interview that he considered retirement after leaving the club.

His performance on the night—despite conceding early—showed glimpses of the reflexes that made him a fan favourite.

Manager Ruben Amorim praised both the supporters and De Gea’s influence, noting how the evening “reminded everyone what Manchester United stands for.”

The result capped a summer of change for United, with big-money signings, a £50m Carrington training complex revamp, and a renewed push to compete at the top.

With Arsenal up next, United fans will hope the momentum, and the emotion of De Gea’s return, can carry into the new campaign.