David de Gea has turned to a new sport since leaving Manchester UnitedCredit: PA

According to The Athletic, De Gea has been spending much of his time since leaving Old Trafford playing padel.

Padel is a Mexican game similar to both tennis and squash and is played on a small court that has fencing all around it that the ball can be played off.

The ex-Spain number one, 33, isn’t the only footballer that has turned their attention to the growing sport either.

Former Newcastle and PSG star Hatem Ben Arfa, 36, is also a big padel player and has even earned himself a national ranking for the sport in France.

Alongside his padel playing De Gea is reportedly maintaining his fitness should the right opportunity to return to the pitch pop up.

However that offer is yet to come despite rumours of a move to Newcastle United and offers from teams across Europe’s top leagues.

In fact it is said that De Gea is enjoying his time away from the spotlight and has even considered retirement since leaving United.

He has been able to spend more time with his family and friends as well as putting focus on his esports team – which he co-owns with former teammate Bruno Fernandes.

De Gea’s next steps aren’t known yet, but he will have to make a decision on his future soon.

With the January transfer window now open there is a higher likelihood that movement amongst clubs could open up the door for a new opportunity.

However with reports suggesting he is yet to be enticed by any offer that has come his way, retirement could be a real option.

De Gea watched the Man Utd Women’s team take on PSG in OctoberCredit: Getty

He has also spent his time away from the pitch catching up with his teammatesCredit: Instagram @d_degeaofficial

De Gea has focused on his esports team with Bruno FernandesCredit: Instagram / @d_degeaofficial