Keylor Navas has vowed to do all he can in order to remain Real Madrid’s No 1 after claiming that he never wanted to join Manchester United.
The goalkeeper spent much of last season as Iker Casillas’ deputy, while he was used as a bargaining chip in David de Gea’s proposed move to the Santiago Bernabeu on transfer-deadline day last month.
However, the switch never materialised and Navas has gone on to establish himself as Los Blancos’ first choice between the sticks, even setting a new club record of five clean sheets since the start of the campaign.
“Since arriving here, I’ve never thought about leaving,” he was quoted as saying by Marca.
“I’ve always wanted to stay at Madrid. I hope I don’t suffer any injuries and stay here for many years.
“[The period in which I almost joined United] was difficult for me. Since I signed my contract with Real Madrid, the only thing that went through my head was being a starter and giving everything.
“I’m happy to be here and I want to continue along the same line.
“I was given the opportunity to stay where I wanted and I’ll give everything to ensure that I stay.
“I want to always improve my work. [Last season] was difficult because it wasn’t a comfortable situation.
“To me, that’s in the past and I’m trying to focus on the present. It’s all that matters.
“I’m taking things step by step. You must have a peace of mind, not go crazy, keep your feet on the ground and know that your daily work has to be followed up. I’ll give everything to remain a starter.
“I’m very grateful to the fans. They’ve always shown me their support and that’s difficult to attain at this club.
“Still, I’m aware that they’ve always supported me through any situation.
“There are difficult moments in life, but God gave my family and I the strength and peace needed to move forward.”
