5 goalkeepers who started as outfield players

#1 David De Gea

David De Gea started his career as a forward

From a lacklustre and disappointing debut season to his rise to stardom as the best keeper of his generation, David De Gea's tale is one to cherish for many fans. The Spaniard has been instrumental and the most vital part of Manchester United during their dark years after Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement.

But, you'll be surprised to know that he never planned on guarding the sticks for an entire career. The Manchester United number 1, as Jose Maria Cruz, his old football coach remembers him, was a striker who was their top goalscorer.

'At this school, David was an outfield player until the age of 14. We played futbol sala here, Spain's answer to five-a-side, and he was playing up front. He was our top goalscorer.'

However, as De Gea revealed himself, he switched to the role of a keeper since he felt he was more natural in that position.

Throughout the years, when people look up to David as the man to replace the legendary Iker Casillas, he won't be disappointed with his decision, would he?