Manchester United have all but accepted they will be without Andre Onana when the Africa Cup of Nations kicks off, as per The Mirror.
When the Cameroon international completed a £47.2 million switch from Milan to Manchester in July, the Red Devils were under the impression that he had ruled out any international commitments following a fall-out with head coach Rigobert Song at the World Cup.
However, after being pressured to return to his national team, Onana was called up for the final AFCON qualifiers this year. Now, he looks set to represent his country at the tournament in January, which could see him miss up to six games of club action for United.
Bayindir ready to rival Onana for starting spot
This leaves Erik ten Hag with two senior options to fill in for Onana; Tom Heaton and Altay Bayindir. Given that the latter was signed as a backup in the summer and is regularly named on the bench each week, he will likely be given the nod to take between the sticks.
Turkish international Bayindir is yet to make his debut for United but is keen to take his chance – when it comes – with both hands. He reportedly sees the upcoming tournament as a chance to move up in Ten Hag’s estimations and potentially, push for a starting role.
Onana is aware that his absence may lead to him falling in the pecking order should Bayindir impress the coaching staff.
Bayindir has not had one run out, it has taken Onana a dozen games to show his best and now they expect Bayindir to come in cold and hit the ground running. Strange management.
We need Degea back