6ft 5in goalkeeper believes his talent and height can win a starting place in one of the Premier League’s top clubs
Radek Vitek says he is determined to return to Manchester United and compete for a starting place, insisting he has no interest in remaining on the bench.
The goalkeeper is currently on loan at Bristol City, where he has established himself as a regular. Since joining in July, he has made 34 appearances in the Championship, playing over 3,000 minutes.
Speaking about his future, Vitek made it clear he wants consistent playing time. He said: “At this stage in my career, at a young age, I want to play as many games as possible. I wouldn’t benefit from sitting on the bench here, or anything else.”
The 22-year-old, who has already had loan spells at Accrington Stanley and FC Blau-Weib Linz, highlighted the step up in quality in the Championship compared to League Two. “The main difference is the quality of the players are more tactic-wise,” he said. “I remember in League 2 it was more like a dogfight! You literally go long and everyone was just scrapping for the second balls. But here in the Championship, obviously it’s more tactical, every team plays different balls or some more combinations, so you have to adjust.”
Standing at 1.98 metres, Vitek believes his physical presence is a key strength, particularly when dealing with crosses. “It is difficult for goalkeepers but luckily for me, I am 6ft 5in. So I can deal with that. I like to come for crosses and help my team-mates by claiming them or punching them away from dangerous areas.”
United have extended his contract until 2028, but competition for places is expected to be strong. Senne Lammens is currently ahead in the pecking order, while former United goalkeeper Andre Onana has been linked with a possible return.
Despite that, Vitek says his stance will not change. “I will communicate with Man United closely and we will see what’s going to be best for me next season. But I want to play football. I don’t want to just be somewhere sitting on the bench,” he concluded.
