Andre Onana has made some great saves this season, helping United avoid heavy defeats. His penalty save in the 3-0 win over Southampton was considered by the Cameroonian goalkeeper to be the most important of the season, helping the team overcome a difficult period and boosting the team's morale.
In addition, Onana also had impressive saves such as the double save in the draw with Crystal Palace, keeping the "Red Devils" to get a valuable point. These performances show that the 28-year-old star is not only an excellent goalkeeper but also a spiritual support for the Old Trafford team at the present time.
However, to achieve the current success, Andre Onana had to overcome a difficult period. In the first friendly match against Lens last season, he conceded a goal from a shot from the middle of the field, creating great skepticism from fans.
One of the worst moments for the 1996-born goalkeeper was the 3-3 draw against Galatasaray in the 2023-2024 Champions League, when Onana made mistakes in two free kicks by Hakim Ziyech.
After the match, the new Man United player stood silently on the field, feeling disappointed. Those mistakes cost the English team the chance to enter the knockout round, and at the same time pushed Onana into a serious state of loss of confidence.
The biggest turning point for Andre Onana probably came in the match against Newcastle in December 2023, although Man United lost 0-1. The Cameroon star immediately regained his spirit and played with focus after the disaster in the Champions League. The former Inter goalkeeper admitted that he had devoted all his determination to overcome the difficult period and show his ability.
Onana’s biggest change has been his mentality. He has always reminded himself that mistakes are an inevitable part of football. This approach has helped the Man United goalkeeper stay calm and focus on improving.
Erik ten Hag has also played a key role in restoring Andre Onana's confidence. The Dutchman has not only defended his player against public pressure, but has also stressed that the 28-year-old goalkeeper had a slow start at Ajax and Inter Milan but has since become a key player.
Another notable aspect of Onana’s resurgence is his improvement in his game. According to Matt Pyzdrowski, a former professional goalkeeper and current analyst, the Cameroonian has made significant improvements in his stance and hand placement when preparing to make a save. This has helped him make better decisions in dangerous situations.
Andre Onana leads the Premier League in expected goals prevented (xGOT). He has prevented an average of 4.5 more goals than expected, a figure that is far superior to any other player in the league.
Off the pitch, Andre Onana’s role is also highly valued in the Man United dressing room. With the ability to speak many languages, including English, French, Spanish, Italian and a regional language in Cameroon, the goalkeeper born in 1996 has helped unite teammates from many different countries.
With the arrival of Ruben Amorim and a new football philosophy, Onana will continue to face challenges. However, with a strong mentality and constant improvement, he believes he is in the best form since joining the team. Regardless of pressure or criticism, Onana insists he can stand firm and always wants to show his dedication to Man United.
