Martin Dubravka has opened up on the 'very offensive' abuse he received from a minority of Newcastle United fans after joining Manchester United. The summer arrival of Nick Pope paved the way for the Slovakian international to join the Red Devils on loan.
Dubravka had hoped to challenge David de Gea for a starting spot at Old Trafford, but made just two appearances in the Carabao Cup before returning to Tyneside in January. Manchester United did hold an option to sign the 34-year-old on a permanent basis, but insted the initial agreement was cancelled in the mid-season window.
Dubravka proved to be an inspired bargain buy during the Rafa Benitez era, and enjoyed a memorable debut as he kept a clean sheet against the Red Devils in February 2018. The goalkeeper has gone to make 132 appearances for the Magpies, but was still subject to 'abuse' on social media from a section of the club's fanbase after he made the move to a rival.
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Reflecting on the response to his loan exit, Dubravka told the Mirror: “Some (of the messages) were very harsh. Some of them were very offensive, to my family and myself.
“I was thinking: Do I deserve this, after five years being here, trying to do my best for the club. But that’s football. Not everyone can love you. That’s not this world.
“Twitter? The abuse there. I didn’t expect that. But there was the other side of the fans who appreciated the time I’ve spent here, and they showed me love even when I came back.”
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