David De Gea in tears as new Manchester United keeper says farewell to Atletico Madrid

David De Gea broke down in floods of tears last night as he bade farewell to Atletico Madrid, just hours after his first interview as a Manchester United player.

The Spain Under 21 keeper, who signed for United for £17.8million in a five-year deal, backed himself to be a worthy successor to Edwin van der Sar.

Emotional moment: David De Gea bids farewell to Atletico Madrid

He told MUTV: ‘Edwin has been the best goalkeeper in the world. I hope to emulate him and spend a great number of years here and, hopefully, equal or even surpass the performance and contribution he made.’

But when De Gea, 20, flew back to Madrid for a press conference to say goodbye to Atletico fans, he was overcome by emotion as he tried to explain his reasons for leaving.