Andre Onana recalls important advice he received from Manchester United legend

Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana has revealed the guidance club legend Edwin van der Sar gave him before his move to Old Trafford.

During his time at Ajax, Cameroon international Onana spoke with Van der Sar, who was chief executive for the Dutch superstars.

The former Manchester United keeper had a lot to say to Onana, who is currently nominated for United’s Player of the Month award after making a series of crucial saves in the 1-1 draw against Brentford and the 2-0 defeat of Everton.

Speaking to Inside United, the official club magazine, the 28-year-old spoke about his relationship with van der Sar.

Onana said: “I had the privilege to have him at Ajax and he advised me a lot. We had a great time there. We achieved a lot of things together. Obviously, I had the honour to train a few times with him when he was coming to the training sessions.

“It was nice. He had a great career here and he’s done a lot of things for Manchester United and for me.

“I’m still in contact with him and very happy to talk to him sometimes when we can. Talking about him is something great because he did a lot for me.”

When questioned about the exact details of what the former Netherlands international keeper had said to him, Onana agreed that van der Sar’s experience with United ensured that his advice was second to none.

“Sure, sure,” he said. “One hundred per cent. I spoke to him when I signed here and even, I think, a few months ago.

“He told me: ‘Andre, what can I tell you already? You are already used to the pressure. Just give yourself time and show the world who you are. I already know who you are.'”

Onana also took the opportunity to thank the Dutchman for all that he did for both United and Ajax, who he helped win the 1995 Champions League under Louis van Gaal.

He added: “What he did and what he achieved was not easy because he was very young. He did a lot for Ajax, and we are all proud of him.

“I was not there as I was still a baby at that time! But he was a legend there for us.

“At 18, 19, he did great things and did a lot that opened the door for us younger players. I think, because of him, a big club like Ajax started to give opportunities to young goalkeepers and I am one of them.

“I started when I was younger and can only say thanks to him. He has done a lot for me and a lot of young goalkeepers.”