Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana has insisted that booing from the club’s supporters will not affect his decisions on the pitch, following criticism that he occasionally holds onto the ball for too long.
Onana has been a source of frustration for some fans, who have taken issue with his failure to release the ball fast enough when the team has an opportunity to break.
On several occasions, the Cameroonian has faced groans and jeers from the crowd, urging him to speed up his decision-making. During Sunday’s goalless draw with Manchester City at Old Trafford, audible boos rang out more than once.
However, the goalkeeper has said he will not allow fan pressure to affect what he does on the pitch.
Onana also explained the logic behind his slow recycling of the ball. He remarked [as quoted by 90min], “To be honest, it doesn’t affect me because the decision I make is to help the team.”
“Sometimes I will make the right decision, sometimes I will make the wrong decision, when I feel my players need to rest I have to take my time, when I feel we need to speed up the game I will do it.”
“But sometimes, especially in the second half with an opponent that has a lot of control, they have more possession than us, I have to let my guys breathe.”
He added, “They need me to do that. If the team needs to speed up the game, I will do it.”
“I try to make the best decision for the team.”
There has been speculation over Onana’s future at United ahead of the summer transfer window. It has been suggested that the Red Devils are willing to sanction his sale after another difficult season.
The Saudi Pro League has been mentioned as a likely destination for the 29-year-old, who is believed to be keen on staying and fighting for his place under Ruben Amorim.
United are back in action on Thursday when they head to Lyon for their Europa League quarterfinal first leg.
Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
