Manchester United has made a resounding statement in the transfer market with the £47 million signing of Andre Onana from Inter Milan. The 27-year-old goalkeeper joins the Red Devils as the club’s top priority following the departure of David De Gea. Onana’s arrival has positioned him as the third most expensive goalkeeper in football history, only trailing Chelsea’s Kepa Arrizabalaga and Liverpool’s Alisson.
With a five-year deal and an option for an additional season, Onana brings a unique blend of skills to Old Trafford. His ability to perform exceptionally well with both his feet and hands sets him apart from De Gea, whose limitations in playing out from the back were apparent.
Onana’s footballing philosophies align with the modern game, making him an ideal fit for United. While De Gea’s style did not mesh with Spain’s play, Onana earned a spot in Cameroon’s World Cup squad. However, things took an unexpected turn during the tournament as he clashed with manager Rigobert Song over his playing style.
The Cameroon international is known for his capability to play out from the back, a style favored by many top clubs in modern football. Despite his impressive performance in the World Cup opener against Switzerland, the disagreement with Song led to his removal from the squad. Onana remained steadfast in his refusal to abandon his preferred approach.
Erik ten Hag, Manchester United’s manager, has long desired a goalkeeper in the mold of Onana. Drawing from the player’s past experiences at Ajax and Barcelona, it is evident that Onana will be instrumental in initiating United’s attacks from the back. His ability to act as the team’s playmaker from the goal line adds a new dimension to United’s playing style.
The £43 million initial fee, with additional add-ons, reflects United’s confidence in Onana’s potential to become a game-changing force for the club. As fans eagerly await his debut, the stage is set for Andre Onana to prove himself as a modern-day goalkeeping marvel and lead Manchester United to new heights in the upcoming seasons.
