Cameroonian goalkeeper André Onana has found himself at the center of intense scrutiny since joining Manchester United in July 2023 from Inter Milan.
His early performances have been overshadowed by costly mistakes, including a glaring error against Wolverhampton in December 2024, where he conceded a goal directly from a corner.
The blunder intensified criticism, raising questions about his suitability for the Premier League.
Former Italy goalkeeper Massimo Taibi, who faced his own challenges during a brief stint at Old Trafford in the 1990s, has weighed in on the situation.
Taibi expressed concern over Onana’s struggles, suggesting that the Premier League might not align with the goalkeeper’s strengths.
“He needs to think seriously about his future. If things don’t improve, he should consider changing clubs,” Taibi advised.
A Challenging Transition
Onana arrived at Manchester United with high expectations following his stellar performances for Inter Milan, particularly in the Champions League.
However, his transition to English football has been anything but smooth.
The Premier League’s relentless pace and physical demands appear to have exposed vulnerabilities in his game, leading to mounting pressure at Old Trafford.
Taibi, reflecting on the unique challenges of the English top flight, believes that Onana’s current difficulties could worsen if not addressed.
“The competitive demands here are different, and they might not suit his style,” Taibi remarked, while also acknowledging Onana’s undeniable talent.
A Call for Reflection
Despite his criticism, Taibi refrained from questioning Onana’s abilities, labeling him one of Europe’s finest goalkeepers.
Instead, he urged the Cameroonian to step back and reassess his mental approach, emphasizing the importance of tuning out external negativity.
“If he can regain focus and confidence, he still has a chance to turn things around,” Taibi said.
However, he also cautioned that if Onana’s struggles persist, a move to another league might be the best option for a fresh start.
Uncertain Future
As the season progresses, Onana’s role at Manchester United remains under intense observation.
With growing expectations from fans and management alike, the coming months will be critical in determining his long-term future at the club.
Whether he can adapt and silence his critics or seeks a new chapter elsewhere, Onana’s journey underscores the high stakes of competing at the sport’s elite level.
