Erik ten Hag is not concerned about the prospect of losing Manchester United first choice goalkeeper Andre Onana to the African Cup of Nations because the manager is satisfied with the back-up options he has available in the squad.
Though it has yet to be confirmed whether Onana will be going to the international tournament, but he has played for Cameroon since his decision to retire after the World Cup.
I, for one, never once thought that Onana wouldn’t be involved for the earlier stages at least – depending on how far they process between January and February – after his U-turn to play for Cameroon again.
It’s a problem because we’ll be without our first choice keeper, who has played every minute for United this season, even though he’s had his fair share of criticism. Onana could miss up to six games (including Tottenham and Aston Villa) should his country reach the final which takes place on February 11, 2024.
The current No.2 is Turkey international Altay Bayindir who is yet to make his debut since joining United in the summer from Fenerbahce. We don’t know what to fully expect on that front, but there’s a good chance he will be preparing for a busy New Year.
Ten Hag could also call upon Tom Heaton.
Speaking to reporters in his pre-match press conference, ahead of United’s trip to West Ham, Ten Hag was asked about Onana potentially leaving for the AFCON at the start of the New Year. The manager stressed that he has no such fears, saying (via Manchester Evening News): “I am quite comfortable with the fact. First of all, Andre Onana, in the Premier League has performed very well, and at Anfield, it was a great performance from him.
“When he is going there, I think we have a strong couple of keepers with Bayindir and Tom Heaton so we are comfortable. Of course, we are hoping Onana is available as much as possible. But if not, we have two good keepers who can replace him.”
The Dutchman added: “We have discussed it but I am very comfortable. I can’t answer this question at the moment but if they call him up, you know the regulations.”
Onana will be one of the first names in the starting line-up this afternoon when United take on West Ham in the Premier League. It will be our last game before Boxing Day’s visit of the in-form Aston Villa.
Get the latest Manchester United news, opinion, interviews and exclusive features with the Stretty Newsletter – Ad Free! Kick off your afternoon with the Stretty News verdict on all matters Manchester United.
This manager , talks nonsense most of the time either he blind or stupid . Changing our goalkeeper was the biggest blunder in the club . Buying Mason Mount and Onana was not the priority. We needed strikers .
Playing McTominay every game is a joke . We don’t have a style of play. This man is damaging the club . He’s stubbornness has effected most of our senior players. Ronaldo , DDG, Sancho , Varane , Martinez , is he really injured , I doubt it . Players and fans are upset to their teeth .