ISTANBUL

David de Gea is leaving Manchester United after 12 seasons, the Spanish goalkeeper announced Saturday.

De Gea, 32, said an emotional goodbye to fans on social media. "Now, it's the right time to undertake a new challenge, to push myself again in new surroundings."

"It's been an unforgettable and successful period since I came here. I didn't think from leaving Madrid as a young boy we would achieve what we did together. Now, it's the right time to undertake a new challenge, to push myself again in new surroundings," De Gea added.

The veteran goalie joined the Red Devils from the Spanish La Liga team Atletico Madrid in July 2011.

In his career, he helped Atletico Madrid claim a UEFA Europa League Cup and a UEFA Super Cup in 2010.

De Gea also won the UEFA Europa League title with Manchester United in 2017.

He made 367 appearances for the English club.