Onana’s Manchester United Future Unclear After Recent Errors | OneFootball

Andre Onana and Manchester United: A Future in Doubt

History often has a way of repeating itself at Manchester United. Two years ago, late-season mistakes by David de Gea led Erik ten Hag to re-evaluate the goalkeeper position. Now, as Andre Onana falters under pressure, the same conversation is unfolding at Old Trafford.

Decisions Loom for Amorim

Ruben Amorim’s decision to drop Onana for the trip to Newcastle suggests growing uncertainty. With Thursday’s Europa League clash against Lyon holding Champions League qualification – and major financial implications – the pressure is intensifying.

United insiders are questioning Onana’s long-term future. As reported, “faith in Onana is eroding due to mistakes in pivotal moments,” and after Amorim allowed him to “disconnect,” both sides are said to be open to a possible separation this summer.

Photo IMAGO

Mistakes and Mounting Pressure

The 2-2 first-leg draw against Lyon was telling. Onana’s errors – including palming a shot into Rayan Cherki’s path after failing to hold Georges Mikautadze’s strike – sparked internal criticism. “Balls being parried into danger” has become a recurring flaw. Former Carrington staff reportedly believe his hands are “too hard” and question whether he should redirect shots with greater care.

Even within United’s recruitment team, Onana’s arrival was not a unanimous choice. Though his three exceptional double saves this season – at Crystal Palace, away at Fenerbahce and against Southampton – remind fans of his potential, the inconsistencies are casting a longer shadow.

Contract, Agents and Saudi Links

Onana has changed agents, now working with LIAN Sports. The switch was aimed at offering a “fresh outlook” and possibly negotiating revised contract terms. His current deal includes a 25% wage cut triggered by the club’s Champions League absence, which reportedly came as a surprise.

Talks with Saudi Pro League clubs began after United’s group stage exit last season. Though no deal materialised, the financial appeal remains strong. United, however, have practical hurdles to overcome. As outlined, “the £43.8million ($57.8m) fee agreed with Inter is amortised… he still holds a book value of £26.3m.” United must receive more than that in any sale to avoid recording a loss.

A loan exit could emerge as a compromise, especially with limited clubs able to meet his salary demands outright. Meanwhile, United still owe Inter a final instalment of the transfer fee – a detail recently lamented by Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

Photo IMAGO

Tactical Fit and Transition Challenges

Onana was supposed to be part of a new United identity – a modern, ball-playing goalkeeper praised by Pep Guardiola after the 2023 Champions League final. Yet translating that to the Premier League has proven more difficult.

Onana has operated behind numerous defensive combinations, shifted between tactical systems, and worked under three goalkeeping coaches. Such inconsistency matters. Still, his willingness to front up during tough moments has not gone unnoticed.

As United prepare for Lyon, Amorim’s decision will be telling. While Altay Bayindir struggled on his Premier League debut, restoring Onana might be a necessity rather than a preference. “Leaving Onana out for such a pivotal contest would undermine the relationship if he were to stay at the club,” and that reality may shape Thursday’s selection.

Whatever happens next, the sense of déjà vu around Manchester United goalkeepers is striking. This was not the plan, and once again, the future of a No.1 is clouded in uncertainty.