Goalkeeper Andre Onana joined Manchester United from Inter Milan in the summer of 2023 to replace David de Gea.
Two years on, it’s become increasingly clear that the club may have made a mistake in signing the Cameroon international.
Onana has struggled to live up to Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola’s high praise of him being ‘exceptional,’ delivering a string of underwhelming performances for United.
The latest came in the Europa League quarter-final first-leg clash against Lyon last Thursday, where he was at fault for both of the French side’s goals.
Some within the club believe that a pre-match altercation with Nemanja Matic may have affected his performance against the French side, but that explanation would not convince many.
While United are not currently prioritising a move for a new goalkeeper, Onana’s repeated errors could force the club to reassess their summer transfer plans.
‘There is a feeling around the club that a lasting separation could at least be explored by both sides’, according to The Athletic.
This aligns with an earlier report from journalist David Ornstein, who claimed Onana’s agent may look to engineer a move away from Old Trafford this summer.
While it may be difficult for the Cameroonian to attract top-tier European suitors, journalist Fabrizio Romano has revealed there is interest from the Saudi Pro League (SPL) in his services.
The Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) could prevent United from parting ways with the 29-year-old.
For his sale to not count as a loss, United would have to sell him for a profitable fee.
As a result, ‘people close to the situation believe Onana will ultimately stay at United’ unless a loan becomes a viable option.
Onana could still salvage his United career
Despite his struggles, Onana could have a shot at redemption in the upcoming must-win second leg against Lyon.
With Altay Bayindir failing to impress against Newcastle United, there’s a strong chance Onana will be back in goal.
This could be a crucial opportunity for him to help United advance to the Europa League semi-finals.
Onana proved to be a reliable shot-stopper at Inter and Ajax. If he can regain his composure — something he has lacked since arriving at Old Trafford — he might yet turn things around and secure his future at United.
