Man United fans stunned by David de Gea's 'dark arts' as Solly March steps up for penalty

Before Solly March missed his penalty in the shootout defeat at Wembley Stadium, Manchester United fans are now starting to recognize David de Gea's sneaky tactics during the match. 

In the end, Man United won 7-6 on penalties against Brighton, securing their place in the FA Cup final on June 3 against Manchester City.

March was the sole player who failed to convert his penalty, as he blasted his attempt over the crossbar. In contrast, Victor Lindelof calmly dispatched his spot-kick, clinching the triumph.

Prior to unsuccessful penalty, Weghorst gave the ball a 'kiss of death,' and fans also recognized the part played by De Gea.

During the moment when the Brighton midfielder was about to take his penalty, the Man United goalkeeper was observed lurking around the penalty spot.

The Spanish goalkeeper kicks away some dirt before pointing to the penalty spot, with fans online thinking his sh*thousery influenced March fluffing his lines.

One Twitter user wrote: "Noticed De Gea kicking round the spot just before the only one that missed."

A second tweeted: "And just like that, I love this squad again."

A third added: "These little things do play role in crunch moments. Gotta be dirty in football when required even though this is nothing of that sort."

A fourth commented: "Dark arts of football."

Another said: "Didn’t even notice this lol."

De Gea was unable to save any of Brighton's penalties - just like in the Europa League final against Villarreal in 2021.

But March hitting his penalty over gave the Red Devils victory on Sunday as they have the opportunity to bag a second domestic cup of the season, having already won the Carabao Cup.

Speaking after the game, De Gea said he 'tried to put pressure' on Brighton's penalty takers and fired a warning to Man City.

"It was a very tight game we played a very good team. Brighton play really good football. We are now in the final but we have another big game on Thursday so we need to go home and recover," he said.

"They were great penalties. I was prepared as always. I tried to put pressure on the taker."

The 32-year-old added: "There's still a long way to the final but it will be a big game against one of the best teams in Europe and the world. We showed at home we can beat them [Man City] so let's hope.

"We are on the right track. One trophy, another final and fighting for the top four. It's not enough but it's a big step from last season."