Andre Onana has spoken to club media about feeling more settled in Manchester after a difficult start to life at Old Trafford.
The Cameroon international believes there is more to come after keeping his eight clean sheet in Premier League this season, a tally only bettered by Arsenal’s David Raya (9), and we are starting to see why Erik ten Hag made him his primary option to replace David de Gea last summer.
Onana, 27, committed a number of costly mistakes at the beginning of the season but his performances have improved significantly since he returned from the Africa Cup of Nations.
Of course, it can take time for any new signing to adjust to new surroundings, and we must note how incredibly difficult it has been for Onana, as a goalkeeper playing in front of a different back four most weeks due to the injuries Ten Hag’s squad has sustained throughout the campaign.
Having a settled back four would be high on the list of demands for any keeper.
After making a few important saves in United’s 2-0 win over Everton on Saturday, Onana spoke to MUTV and revealed how he has the ability to speak multiple languages to his defence.
“I speak quite a lot, I think four,” Onana said. “Spanish, Italian, English and French. Even if my English is 50/50, I try to do my best! It’s very important for me to be able ot speak with every guy in the team.
“I speak in Spanish with Licha, for me it’s good, and when I speak with Rapha [Varane], I speak in French, sometimes I make mistakes and when I speak English I can say French words.”
Onana added: “I have so many languages in my mind and it’s something nice to be able to speak languages in the game. It’s great to play with these guys and I’m very proud to be here.”
Speaking about the game itself, Onana felt it was an important win for the Reds as we aim to finish the season strongly – and in the top four!
“I feel very good and happy for the victory. It was an important game for us and every game is important for us at the moment.
“[They are all] like a final. I’m happy and [we were] solid in defence, we always had to be brave because we faced a really good opponent.
“Especially in the first half, we had to start our attacks from the back and that is what we did and I am happy for the goals. Now we must get ready for the coming games.”
The shot-stopper also took the time to praise the fans for their loyal support after such a tricky start to life at the club, while stating there is more to come.
“There is more to come, much more to come, it has taken me seven months to feel good here in Manchester,” he added.
“I am also very happy with the support of everyone because it was a tough time at the beginning.
“Now I am here, I receive a lot of support from the fans, from my team-mates, from the club and now I am [feeling] better. I am very happy and I know the future will be brilliant.”
Subscribe to the Stretty News podcast Strettycast for weekly episodes on Manchester United. You can also sign up to the ad-free Stretty Newsletter. Get the Stretty News verdict on all matters Manchester United.
