Talk of the Devils: The Athletic FC's Manchester United show What makes a Man United goalkeeper with Eric Steele
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Feb 18, 2026 Eric Steele, former Manchester United goalkeeping coach who trained stars like Edwin van der Sar and David de Gea, shares stories from his long coaching career. He describes his unexpected route to Old Trafford. He talks scouting and signing De Gea, coaching routines and language adaptation. He reflects on training culture, recruitment, and memorable keepers he worked with.
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Two-Minute Brief From Sir Alex
- Sir Alex gave Eric two clear priorities: extend Edwin van der Sar's longevity and find his replacement.
- That briefing highlights how coaching roles blend immediate performance with succession planning.
Know Players As People First
- Get to know players as people first to coach them effectively, a lesson Eric learned from Sir Alex.
- Build rapport and understand lifestyles before enforcing performance demands.
Chelsea Match That Changed Everything
- Eric remembers the Chelsea game as the moment they realised David de Gea was a genuine Manchester United goalkeeper.
- Sir Alex walked off saying, 'we've got a goalkeeper', marking a turning point in De Gea's early season.
