David de Gea says playing in England has changed him for the better

Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea says playing in England has changed him for the better.

De Gea is preparing to start for Spain today against the Netherlands in a rematch of Holland’s 5-1 victory over Spain during last summer’s World Cup in Brazil.

Former Manchester United captain Gary Neville has been the biggest exponent of De Gea’s abilities in goal. The current Sky Sports pundit recently commented on the goalkeeper’s rapid development at the club since his arrival from Atletico Madrid in 2011.

“If you look at the improvements he has made from where he was three years ago, it is absolutely staggering,” Neville said.

During an interview with FIFA.com, De Gea himself agreed his time in England has changed him for the better.

“English football has changed me, really,” De Gea told FIFA.com. “I’ve grown a lot physically, I have gained a lot in concentration, I have improved in every way. You learn a lot from this league.”

De Gea stressed United’s goal for this season is to return to the Champions League following their one year absence from Europe’s top club competition.

“We must get into the Champions League, no matter what,” the 24-year-old added. “A team like Manchester United can’t miss out for two years running.”

When asked about his current situation with the Spanish national team, De Gea admitted he will have to bide his time behind veteran goalkeeper Iker Casillas, who he considers the “holder” of the top spot with La Roja.

However, De Gea stressed his intention is to be Spain’s number one, and he will continue giving coach Vicente del Bosque a selection problem by showcasing his talents everyday in training.

“At the present there are three of us and Iker remains the first choice,” De Gea concluded.

“No one knows what will happen in the future, we must live in the moment, try to train well, and make selection difficult for the coach. This is the most important thing.”

“I want to play in a World Cup – not just go. I want to win titles with my club and my team. That’s what makes you a great footballer. I have a lot to do in my career.”

Programming note: Netherlands vs. Spain will be shown LIVE today starting at 2:35pm EST on beIN SPORTS and DishWorld.