Former Manchester United goalkeeper Massimo Taibi has voiced concerns over Andre Onana’s performances in the English Premier League, despite acknowledging the Cameroonian’s status as one of Europe’s top goalkeepers.
Taibi, speaking to The Sun, noted that Onana’s displays for Manchester United have fallen short of expectations and suggested that the Premier League may not suit the 27-year-old’s style of play.
“I’d be straight to the point and tell him, ‘Andre, you are one of the best keepers in Europe, but in the Premier League, you are underperforming,” Taibi said.
He continued, “Block out criticism, do some soul-searching, press the reset and go again. And if things don’t change by June, move on.”
Taibi also questioned whether United’s environment is conducive to Onana’s success.
“I think subconsciously the United environment isn’t ideal for him, and when a marriage is showing cracks, it’s pointless to continue. Sometimes things don’t work out at a team, and it’s best to go separate ways, which would not be a failure,” he added.
While praising Onana’s ball-playing skills and structure, Taibi argued that these qualities alone are insufficient for success in the Premier League.
“For me, he’s a strong goalkeeper who finds himself in a situation where he can’t show his skills because he is not cut out for the English game. He’s only suited to the Prem when it comes to his ball-playing ability and structure,” Taibi concluded.
Onana, who joined Manchester United in the summer, has faced mixed reviews since taking over as the team’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Massimo Taibi’s comments underscore the growing scrutiny surrounding his form and future at Old Trafford.