“A lion can slip, but…”: United fans reassured as unpredictable star eyes comeback after turbulent spell

Manchester United, eager to support manager Erik ten Hag in building his ideal team, spent £47.2 million to secure André Onana from Inter Milan in the summer of 2023.

Onana was outstanding at Inter and any United fan will recognise that. His classy shot-stopping and ball-playing ability set him apart.

As impressive as he was, he further cemented his reputation with a masterclass performance against Manchester City in the 2023 UEFA Champions League final, catching the attention of United fans who had already seen reports linking him to the club.

And though he controversially let go of iconic goalkeeper David De Gea, Ten Hag’s push for a reunion made perfect sense.

That said, two seasons into his United career, Onana has yet to settle as the club’s undisputed number one fully.

In his first season, he was still adjusting to the Premier League’s intensity, but things have not improved this term. His inconsistent performances have persisted, and he has cost United crucial matches.

Better goalkeeping could have secured better results in key games, such as the 2-2 Europa League quarter-final draw away to Lyon and the 1-0 final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.

There are growing murmurs that Ruben Amorim is keen on securing a top goalkeeper.

As per journalist Paul Hirst, Altay Bayindir could be sold to accommodate a new goalie signing. This potential arrival is expected to challenge Onana for the starting role.

So, can Onana redeem himself and remain United’s first-choice keeper?

The goalkeeper’s brother, Christian Onana, certainly believes so.

Speaking to Vision 4 via Le Bled Parle, Christian expressed confidence in his brother’s ability, insisting that the 29-year-old remains one of the world’s best goalkeepers and will soon rise again.

“It doesn’t change his status as a great player. He’s one of the best goalkeepers in the world and what’s more, he’s an Indomitable Lion. A lion can slip, but he never falls,” Christian said.

Onana must now repay his brother’s faith in him by turning things around. He excelled at Ajax and Inter Milan, and if class is truly permanent, he can redefine his fortunes at United.

Although rumours have linked him with a departure, he appears more likely to stay, with Bayindir expected to leave instead.

The pressure from a new goalkeeper could be precisely what Onana needs to rediscover his best form.

Now, it’s game on for Onana. He has the perfect opportunity to prove his brother right and silence a few doubters.

Featured Image Carl Recine via Getty Images

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