Former Chelsea and Cameroon international Geremi has urged Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana to rise above the intense criticism and regain confidence in his abilities.
The 29-year-old shot-stopper has endured a difficult season at Old Trafford, marked by a series of high-profile errors that led to his temporary exclusion from the starting lineup, notably missing the Premier League clash against Newcastle.
Off the pitch, Onana also suffered a personal setback when his wife, Melanie, was recently robbed of a luxury handbag and a Rolex watch valued at £62,000.
Geremi, who played alongside Onana for the Cameroon national team, expressed his dismay over the hostility directed at the goalkeeper, particularly those that have extended to his family.
“Every player has to accept criticism, but with Onana people go beyond that and even attack his family. FIFA does not allow that. FIFA frowns on discrimination and insults. This has to stop,” he told The Sun.
The former Real Madrid midfielder, a Champions League winner, believes that the best response to the pressure is self-belief and focus.
“Onana must believe in himself, he is Manchester United’s No 1. He needs to shut out the noise. He’s done well to get to this level. Now he just has to block out the negativity,” Geremi advised.
Onana, who previously impressed at Ajax and Inter Milan, joined Manchester United in a £47.2 million move during the summer of 2023.
Despite moments of brilliance, his tenure so far has been marred by inconsistency. He has been culpable for at least ten errors that have led directly to goals, including two in a Europa League draw against Lyon.
Still, Geremi remains confident in his compatriot’s resilience and potential.
“Whatever happens, Onana will be a great goalkeeper. Just look at his career and what he’s achieved, there’s no doubt he deserves his spot. Every player goes through a rough patch, and this one will pass too,” he concluded.
With Ruben Amorim restoring him to the starting XI, Onana has an opportunity to end the season strongly and help United pursue European success.
