Radek Vitek has been in sensational form for Bristol City this season and has been on international duty with Czech Republic during the international break
Bristol City goalkeeper Radek Vitek(Image: Bristol Post)
Manchester United goalkeeper Radek Vitek has admitted he would “love” to feature for the Red Devils, while acknowledging the reality of where his footballing journey might lead.
The 22-year-old has joined Bristol City during the summer transfer window on a season-long loan deal and has impressed at Ashton Gate, featuring in every league fixture and recording five clean sheets.
His shot-stopping abilities have caught the eye. Robins boss Gerhard Struber told BristolLive recently: “Very impressed, very impressed, and sometimes even a little bit surprised. He’s young, and he looks like an outstanding, experienced Championship goalkeeper.”
Vitek’s development has been consistent. The stopper previously had loan spells with Austrian outfit FC Blau-Weiß Linz and Accrington Stanley, gaining valuable match experience.
Speaking to Sky Sports about his productive loan spell, the keeper reflected on his move to the West Country, reports the Manchester Evening News.
“It’s true, it came a little bit out of nowhere,” Vitek said about signing for Bristol City. “I knew I was going to go on loan this season because I had an agreement with the coach.
“It was the best thing to do and get more experience at a higher level than last year. It was a no-brainer because to play in the Championship for a club such as Bristol City for me was really attractive. I said yes straight away after I spoke with Gerhard Struber.”
Vitek continued: “I’m still quite young, but I would describe myself as a goalkeeper who likes to be both dominant and also confident for the team in front of me so they can rely on me.
“Everything since day one has come together. The people around the club, the city… everyone has been really nice to me since day one and the fans have been amazing.
“First game away from home, Sheffield Wednesday… to celebrate the win like that was an amazing memory. I don’t think I’ll ever forget this one.”
The goalkeeper joined United’s academy from Czech Republic side Sigma Olomouc as a teenager in 2020. “I knew straight away that Manchester United wanted me,” he said.
“They told me straight after seven weeks’ trial, they told me they want me to sign. It was the time when Covid hit though – I spent six months at home, but I didn’t have any doubts because I felt really confident with the conversations I had with the coaches in Manchester.
“Obviously, my club knew as well about the interest and they already spoke with Manchester United about the contracts and everything like that so it was basically done – some of my teammates couldn’t believe it because it’s not an everyday thing someone goes from a Czech academy to a club like Manchester United.”
Vitek produced a man-of-the-match display in United’s opening pre-season friendly against Rosenborg in 2024, but he wasn’t included in the summer tour of the United States as he was set to depart on loan. As for what happens next season, plans are still up in the air.
“I’m taking it step-by-step and we’ll see next summer what’s best for me,” he said.
“I speak on a regular basis with my goalkeeper coach from Manchester United who has come here to watch my games and I have a good connection with them.
“I know they’re watching me and I really appreciate that I’m not just the guy who is being forgotten or anything. Obviously long term, I would love to play for Manchester United one day but also I’m realistic and I know that my pathway can lead somewhere different as well.”
Before joining Bristol City on loan, Vitek signed a new contract with United until 2028.
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