The players and manager deserve credit for a brilliant performance under intense scrutiny, in the presence of Ineos’ best team and even Sir Alex Ferguson.

Life is much calmer away from Manchester United. That’s why it’s common for players to thrive in new clubs.

The two former United stars are currently loving life in Italy.

David de Gea delivers for Fiorentina

Manchester United’s defeat to Villarreal on penalties in 2021 will forever remain one of the most painful defeats he has experienced.

David de Gea managed to concede 11 penalties and then save his own as United missed out on the Europa League.

Since then, David de Gea has rediscovered his ability to defend penalties. United saw this in their Premier League match away to West Ham, and his new club Fiorentina also saw it early on.

Now it’s not a joke anymore. David de Gea saved two penalties in one match as Fiorentina beat AC Milan 2-1.

De Gea saved one goal in each half from Theo Hernandez and Tammy Abraham, instantly becoming the hero of his best match for Fiorentina so far in his career.

After the match, the Spaniard posted a message on Instagram in which he still refers to his long stay at Old Trafford.

He wrote: “Started in Spain, produced in Manchester, love it in Italy.”

Scott McTominay praises David de Gea

David de Gea isn’t the only former Manchester United star loving life in Italy. You can add Scott McTominay to the list.

McTominay signed for Napoli on transfer deadline day and is becoming a key player for the Serie A leaders.

The Scotland international drew attention to De Gea’s heroism, replying on Instagram: “you are too good brother”, while Alejandro Garnacho and even Federico Macheda extended their hand.

Scott McTominay has had a good start for Napoli, scoring twice and providing one assist in his last three games.

It will be some time before McTominay and De Gea fight. Fiorentina and Napoli are scheduled to meet at the end of January and then in May.

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