Manchester United's David De Gea says Chinese fans are unbelievable

"Unbelievable" is the word that goalkeeper David De Gea has used to describe Manchester United fans across China.

The first Manchester derby to be played on foreign soil was called off on Monday afternoon because of concerns over the state of the pitch at Beijing's Bird's Nest Stadium in the International Champions Cup.

Even so, the level of interest reached fever pitch when Man United arrived from Shanghai on Sunday night, with both clubs under new managers.

De Gea has had little time to rest this summer, having played for Spain at Euro 2016 in France, but he says he's happy to be in Asia.

"With the heat, with the humidity, it is really tough but we enjoy China," the 25-year-old told Press Association.

"It is my first time here. It is really hard training but we enjoy it a lot. It is unbelievable the fans in China. It is really crazy, but it is good for us. We enjoy it a lot."

The Red Devils suffered a 4-1 defeat in their ICC opener against Borussia Dortmund in Shanghai on Friday night.

But De Gea says that the tour is more about building camaraderie and team spirit amongst a largely reshaped squad, under Jose Mourinho.

"Of course [the tour brings us closer together], with a new manager and with new players," he said.

De Gea was one of the few success stories last season for United, as they finished a disappointing fifth in the Premier League. He was also crucial when the Red Devils won the FA Cup for the first time in 12 years with a 2-1 victory after extra time over Crystal Palace in the final on May 21.

Manchester United will face Premier League champions Leicester City in the FA Community Shield on Aug. 7 before travelling to Bournemouth for their opening league fixture a week later.

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