In a surprising move, Andre Onana, the newly transferred goalkeeper from Inter Milan to Manchester United for a staggering £48 million, decided against donning the traditional No.1 jersey at his new club. Instead, he chose to continue with the No.24 shirt, a number that holds special significance to him.
Onana revealed that the reason behind his choice was deeply personal. The No.24 shirt represents his birthdate, the 2nd of April, which coincides with his birthday. He has worn this number at both Ajax and Inter Milan, and it has brought him great fortune and success in the past.
“I just like that number. It’s my birthday. My date of birth,” Onana explained in an interview with United’s official website. “For me, it’s great, it’s beautiful. I like this shirt because [in] this shirt, this number we have done a lot, and I hope it will continue.”
Although some may perceive the selection of a jersey number as trivial, it holds a special place in a player’s heart. For Onana, it represents his roots and the positive experiences he has associated with that number throughout his career. By choosing to wear No.24, he aims to maintain a connection with his past while embarking on a new chapter in his career at Manchester United.
As the Red Devils continue their pre-season tour in the United States, Onana might make an appearance in the upcoming game against League Two outfit Wrexham AFC on July 26. Fans will be eager to see how he performs wearing the iconic No.24 shirt, carrying his personal history and aspirations with him onto the pitch.
