Andre Onana arrived with talent, without protection, he’s shown he’s not the man for United, writes DYLAN JOHNSON.
After Nemanja Matic branded Onana one of the worst goalkeepers in Manchester United history, a wave of criticism followed. Many were quick to call the Cameroonian a flop. But while Onana has made costly mistakes since arriving at Old Trafford, it’s unfair to call him a bad goalkeeper. The reality is more nuanced—he’s still a high-level player, just not the right fit to lead Manchester United back to the top.
Before his move to United, Onana was a standout performer at Inter Milan. He played a central role in their run to the 2023 UEFA Champions League final and helped secure both the Italian Cup and Italian Super Cup. His ball-playing ability is elite, and in the right environment, he’s shown he can thrive.
But at United, he’s rarely had a platform to show those strengths. Under Erik ten Hag, Onana often faced 20 or more shots per game. Even the best goalkeepers in football history would struggle to survive under that level of constant pressure. The team’s defensive structure has collapsed time and again, leaving him exposed.
8 – Since the start of last season, no goalkeeper has made more errors leading to goals for Premier League clubs in all competitions than Manchester United’s André Onana (8). Exhibit. pic.twitter.com/G8vq2HMzes
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) April 10, 2025
Being a goalkeeper is already an unforgiving job—one mistake can lose a match. But when you’re called upon to bail out your team 20 times in 90 minutes, failure becomes inevitable. Last season, United’s defence was one of the worst in the Premier League. Onana was in damage control almost every week.
Still, that doesn’t mean he’s United material. His shot-stopping has had its moments—flashes of brilliance that hint at his potential. But his errors, including both goals conceded in the recent draw with Lyon, are why he shouldn’t be United’s long-term No.1.
The biggest issue for United now isn’t just Onana—it’s that they simply can’t afford to replace him. The squad is so weak in other areas that upgrading the goalkeeper is no longer a priority. While the likes of a new centre-back, holding midfielder, and striker are desperately needed, Onana remains in goal by default.
Even if United were to give him more time, the reality is grim. This is a broken squad, with a poor defence and no reliable goal threat. The conditions are as bad as they get for a goalkeeper, and Onana has struggled to rise above them.
Is André Onana the worst goalkeeper in Manchester United history? Absolutely not. But is he good enough to be their long-term No.1? No. That was clear against Lyon, and it’s been clear throughout his time in Manchester. He’s made too many errors, and even though the situation around him has been chaotic, the top-level goalkeepers find a way to overcome. Onana hasn’t done that—and likely never will in this team.
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