Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana says he is optimistic about being fit in time for the start of the 2025/26 Premier League season, despite missing all of the club’s pre-season fixtures due to injury.
The Cameroonian international, who picked up a hamstring problem during the first week of training last month, has yet to feature for United during their summer tour.
In his absence, manager Rúben Amorim has rotated between Altay Bayındır and veteran Tom Heaton in goal across three friendlies in the United States.
United’s pre-season campaign concluded on Sunday with a 2-2 draw against Everton in Atlanta, Georgia, which was enough to secure the Premier League Summer Series title.
Yet Onana’s participation in the upcoming season opener against Arsenal on Sunday, August 17 remains in doubt.
Speaking to Sky Sports following Sunday’s match, the 29-year-old offered a positive update: “I feel good, I feel great. It’s been a few difficult weeks but yeah, hopefully, I will be back for the start of the season. I’m enjoying the training with my guys and we are looking forward.”
United will face Fiorentina in their final pre-season fixture this weekend, and Onana remains hopeful of featuring as he continues recovery.
Looking ahead to the new campaign, the former Inter Milan goalkeeper believes a strong start will be crucial. “If we have a good start against Arsenal, everything is possible,” he said.
Despite Onana’s absence, Amorim has publicly backed the goalkeeper to be United’s No.1 this season.
The Portuguese manager last week dismissed suggestions the club is actively searching for a replacement.
“I think even when you talk about Andre, you can see the goalkeepers,” Amorim said, insisting there is no urgent need to add another shot-stopper to the squad.