Chelsea vs. Manchester United: Will David De Gea Crumble in First Real EPL Test?

Manchester United started the 2011-12 Premier League season in near-perfect form, taking all 12 points in their first four games.

One of the biggest signings for United manager Sir Alex Ferguson this summer was goalkeeper David de Gea, who arrived from Atletico Madrid for £20 million. The Spaniard hasn’t gotten off to a good start this season, and has let in some soft goals in United’s first month of the EPL season.

Fans and media members alike have questioned De Gea’s ability to play at the level required of goalies in the EPL. Against Chelsea on Sunday, De Gea must be in top form to keep United’s perfect season alive.

Chelsea is, by far, the best team United has had to face so far this season, and have so many attacking options.

Players such as Fernando Torres, Frank Lampard, Juan Mata, Nicolas Anelka and Florent Malouda are all capable of scoring goals, and will certainly test De Gea plenty on Sunday.

Making matters worse for De Gea were the comments from his backup, Anders Lindegaard, following United’s 1-1 draw with Benfica during the Champions League in mid-week.

Via the Metro:

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"I accept the manager’s choice every time. He’s the best manager in the world.

"But I am not here to just get my money. I want to be respected as a great football player. If you expect me to say I am happy to be No.2, that is not how it is. I want to be No.1."

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This is not what you want if you’re a Manchester United fan. De Gea was supposed to become the next great United goalkeeper, and at just 21 years old, the future is very promising for him.

But his recent struggles are a huge concern, and a poor performance against Chelsea this weekend could destroy his confidence.

One person De Gea has the support of is his manager, who spoke about his goalkeeper’s mistakes via the Metro:

"David made a couple of mistakes in his first games, which we didn't expect and nor did he," said Ferguson.

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"It was unusual because his form at Atletico Madrid as an 18-year-old was sensational.

"There is no doubt we have a player of great potential. Our job at this club is to realise that potential and make sure he becomes a top goalkeeper."

"

Chelsea are a real threat on Sunday, and throughout the season for the EPL crown, and De Gea must prove he can play well against the top teams, or the critics will grow to the point he will lose all focus and confidence.

Nicholas Goss is a Featured Columnist at Bleacher Report, follow him on Twitter for the latest sports news.  Follow @NicholasGoss35.