André Onana’s debut season at Manchester United is rapidly becoming one to forget, with the Cameroonian goalkeeper facing scrutiny not only for his performances on the pitch but now also for issues off it.
Since arriving from Inter Milan, Onana has struggled to find consistency in goal, with a series of high-profile errors drawing criticism from fans and pundits alike. Costly mistakes in both the Premier League and the Champions League have raised questions about his suitability as United’s long-term No.1.
Now, his situation has been further complicated by an off-field controversy that threatens to damage his reputation even more.
Though details remain limited, reports suggest that Onana has become entangled in a bureaucratic mishap, one that could carry serious implications for both the player and the club.
While not criminal in nature, the incident has reportedly frustrated Manchester United’s hierarchy, who are already under pressure to enforce higher standards of professionalism as they attempt to steer the club back to competitive prominence.
Club sources have expressed concern that the off-field issues only serve to deepen an already disappointing narrative around Onana’s first season at Old Trafford.
Hailed upon arrival as a confident and technically skilled modern goalkeeper, his performances have fallen well short of expectations, with a string of avoidable goals conceded, particularly in Europe, drawing harsh media scrutiny.
The timing of this latest controversy couldn’t be worse. Manchester United’s campaign has been marked by inconsistency and underachievement, and as manager Erik ten Hag tries to rebuild a cohesive and competitive squad, discipline and professionalism are considered non-negotiable values.
Onana, who was brought in to replace long-serving keeper David de Gea, has faced intense pressure to adapt quickly to English football’s unique demands.
While his shot-stopping ability remains intact, his decision-making and distribution under pressure have often let him down in high-stakes moments.
The off-pitch affair, described by insiders as stemming from a bureaucratic oversight, has further strained relations between the player and the club’s leadership.
There is growing concern within the boardroom that Onana’s current trajectory could undermine efforts to restore stability both on and off the field.
For United, who continue to grapple with squad restructuring and long-term planning, any distraction from player discipline or commitment is seen as a threat to progress.
The expectation is clear: those wearing the shirt must uphold the standards demanded by one of the world’s most scrutinised clubs.
While there is still time for Onana to turn things around, the margin for error is shrinking. With just a few games remaining in the season and speculation already building about potential changes in the summer, the spotlight on the goalkeeper will only intensify.
What began as a promising chapter in a new league has now become a critical test of character. Whether André Onana can weather the storm and reassert his place as United’s first-choice keeper remains to be seen — but for now, his debut campaign is increasingly being defined by disappointment rather than redemption.
Man Utd goalkeeper André Onana has Lamborghini Urus impounded for having no insurance after £350k motor pulled over by police
WREXHAM players have jetted off to Las Vegas for the third year running after once again winning promotion. pic.twitter.com/PuLrOKz9CI
— Lilian Chan (@bestgug) May 8, 2025
