Víctor Valdés is ready for the challenge of replacing David de Gea if his fellow Spaniard joins Real Madrid.
Valdés, who joined Manchester United in January, finally made his debut for Louis van Gaal’s team in Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal at Old Trafford when De Gea suffered a hamstring injury after 74 minutes. United were leading 1-0 but ended sharing the points because of a Tyler Blackett own goal that deflected past Valdés.
As De Gea may not recover for the season’s final match, Sunday’s trip to Hull City, the draw with Arsenal may prove his final appearance for United.
De Gea has still not signed the new deal offered to him by the club so he appears ever more certain to be leaving for Real. Valdés, however, would not be drawn regarding whether De Gea could be successful at the European champions.
“Madrid, Barcelona, Man United are three of the biggest clubs in the world,” he said. “Everyone in the world wants to play for these clubs. It’s a question you would have to put to David. I cannot answer for him.”
He indicated, though, that he would be open to the challenge of becoming the United No1. “I am very happy to be here. I have one more year on my contract here. Let’s see what happens,” he added.
Despite the long wait to make a first appearance, Valdés denied he had become frustrated. “No, it’s been good, all good,” he said. “My team-mates have treated me well here. The coach has treated me well, as well. The truth is that it has all been good. And the fans, they are an incredible group of fans. To come on and be welcomed like that is incredible for a footballer.”
Of making his debut Valdés said: “It felt very good. It all went very quickly. David asked to come off and the next thing I knew I was on the pitch. I didn’t know what was happening, but then someone said: ‘Victor, get in there.’
“It was a great feeling to be on the pitch at Old Trafford, the fans welcomed me very well and, for that reason, I am happy.
“I wasn’t happy with the result. It was a lucky goal for them. But I’m happy I made my debut.”
