In the summer of 2023, following the bold decision to let David de Gea leave on a free transfer, Manchester United moved swiftly to sign Andre Onana.
Onana, regarded as one of Europe’s brightest modern-day goalkeepers, had just impressed in Inter Milan’s narrow 1–0 Champions League final defeat to Manchester City.
City may have clinched the win, but Onana’s performance that night won hearts.
Arriving at United amid huge hype and expectation, many believed he would be an instant hit. He was Erik ten Hag’s dream goalkeeper after all.
Unfortunately, the pressure of the Premier League and the weight of replacing De Gea seemed to overwhelm him.
He endured a torrid start to life at Old Trafford, conceding cheap goals that some argued De Gea would have kept out.
While he showed flashes of brilliance, his inconsistency across two seasons meant he failed to secure the No. 1 spot.
Head coach Ruben Amorim eventually realised he could not rely on him. He pushed for a new goalkeeper in the summer, and once INEOS signed Senne Lammens, Onana was allowed to leave on loan.
The Turkish side, Trabzonspor, convinced United to sanction a straight loan deal, with no option to buy. The 29-year-old joined them in search of redemption.
Redemption chance
Handed a fresh opportunity to rediscover his magic, Onana has made a strong start.
In four appearances for Trabzonspor, he has kept two clean sheets, claimed two Man of the Match awards, and even registered an assist.
He has been a brilliant addition to the Turkish side, and one wonders whether they are already contemplating a permanent move next summer.
Trabzonspor’s Onana plans
Speaking to local outlet 61Saat.com, Trabzonspor president Ertugrul Dogan addressed the possibility of joining them after his loan spell.
He hinted at long-term interest, admitting:
“Onana has just joined us, and we and the technical team are pleased.
“He’s a player who cost his team €65 million, including bonuses. It’s impossible for Trabzonspor to make a transfer under those circumstances.
“If the technical staff is happy, we’ll see what we can do at the end of the year.”
Onana’s United chapter over
United will hope that between now and summer 2026, the keeper continues to impress.
If he does, he should command a decent fee.
So they will not mind Trabzonspor harbouring ambitions of a permanent deal; they will welcome such suggestions.
With Altay Bayindir enjoying a new lease of life after two seasons in the shadows, and Lammens making a breakthrough, United’s goalkeeping department looks in capable hands.
There is even talk of another top goalkeeper arriving in 2026.
But whether that materialises or not, Onana’s time at the Theatre of Dreams appears to be drawing to a close.
Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images
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Daniel Onguko
Since Dan was introduced to Manchester United in 2008, he has lived and breathed the club. What started as being a fan evolved into writing about United, allowing him to feel part of their journey. Hopefully, his work might even help rekindle your love for the kings of Manchester.
