In the ever evolving world of football, the so called modern day goalkeeper has become a highly sought after commodity. In a significant coup, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag finally has his replacement for David de Gea in Andre Onana.
The goalkeeper hailing from Cameroon has generated a wave of excitement among a fanbase recognising that it was time for a change in between the sticks at Old Trafford. Erik ten Hag persisted with De Gea, however there were clear signs that for him to fully implement his philosophy, a new goalkeeper was necessary, opting for a player he once worked with at Ajax.
Signing for Ajax in 2016, Onana went onto achieve huge success during his time in Amsterdam with Ten Hag which helped him develop into one of the world’s top goalkeepers. Notably showcasing his talents during the famous 2018-19 campaign of the Champions League in which he helped Ajax to the semi-final beating giants Real Madrid and Juventus, only to miss out on the final via a last minute Lucas Moura goal.
Signing for Inter Milan for the 2022-23 season, he helped the club to their first Champions League final since 2010, continuing his fine form from Ajax. However, before his arrival to Italy, he was banned by UEFA for twelve months as he violated their anti-doping regulations. The football community rallied around him to offer support and encouragement and he returned to club football and continued to portray his talents as a world-class goalkeeper.
There has been no doubt that the goalkeeping department at United has been in transition. Although a legend of the club, there were questions over the long-term future of De Gea and with the club wanting to implement the manager’s style of play, it was time for the club to move on and look to the future.
It was evident that a new goalkeeper was a high priority. Onana was identified and the club acted swiftly to ensure they landed their top target.
Onana perfectly aligns with Ten Hag and United’s philosophy. His excellent shot stopping ability, strong aerial presence and distribution skills make him him the perfect modern day goalkeeper. His talent with the ball at his feet will enable the club to play the ball out from the back with precision and provide United with an asset in their overall build-up play.
Despite his relatively young age for a goalkeeper, he possesses leadership qualities and a winning mentality due to the honours he has won, valuable experience in a team hoping to challenge for the top trophies. His ability to organise his back line and and effectively communicate with them will improve a defence that although good, had exploitable weaknesses.
Having captained Ajax on multiple occasions, his leadership qualities will help him settle into a club that will have immense expectations. Replacing a club legend will mean scrutiny from the Old Trafford faithful will be high but his qualities on and off the ball along with his talents as a goalkeeper should see him thrive in the spotlight. The recent final against Manchester City is evidence of how he thrives under pressure keeping his composure in the biggest moments.
The acquisition of Onana marks an important step in the clubs hope of returning to the very top of club football. His arrival brings excitement to the fans with his presence adding a new dimension to the teams style of play. His calm composure on the ball and strong command of the penalty area is a welcome change and an improvement on his predecessor. As the club eagerly awaits his arrival, Onana will hope to etch his name into the club’s storied history.
Welcome Andre Onana.
