André Onana vows to take “even more” risks during “important” Manchester United season

André Onana has jokingly warned Manchester United fans that he will be taking more risks during what is an important season for Erik ten Hag’s men.

André Onana‘s first season at Manchester United has been a story of two distinct halves. Initially, the goalkeeper struggled, making critical errors that contributed to the club’s early exit from the Champions League.

However, Onana turned things around in the latter half of the season, becoming one of United’s standout players. His consistent performances in goal were pivotal, ultimately helping the team secure the FA Cup trophy on the final day of the domestic season.

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Onana joined Manchester United from Inter Milan for £45 million, replacing David de Gea at the specific request of Erik ten Hag, who had previously worked with him at Ajax. The Cameroonian international is known for his big personality and vocal presence in the dressing room. His daring playing style, while sometimes risky, has become a defining feature of his game.

Speaking recently, Onana believes that United will become much better at playing out from the back, joking that fans should be prepared for him to take plenty more risks.

“Yes, that’s me,” Onana said. “And I think it’s what you’re going to see this season because I will take a lot of risks.

“I can tell you in advance already! Be prepared because it’s going to be this season, trust me! I will enjoy it even more when this season starts.

“The best teams in the world take risks. Building from the back, recognise things, situations, when the opponent jumps one against one, or when they press with three or with four.

“So for me it’s important to recognise those kinds of things and make the best decision for the team. I will take a lot of responsibility and I think my back is huge to carry it all, no? I think it’s going to be nice this season.”

Further, Onana reiterated that he’s aware of the criticisms that come with being a Manchester United player, but that some of it is fair enough while the rest you have to see through.

“Being a player for Manchester United, when you don’t win, it’s fair to receive criticism because it’s part of the job,” he said.

“We are here for it and me coming here as the best goalkeeper in the world, it’s normal they were tough on me because they expect a lot from me.

“But at the same time they also give me a lot of love. You just have to balance that and critics sometimes are good because you have to look back at what you did that was not good, so for me I take it positively.”

Asked if the best from him is yet to come, Onana replied: “One hundred per cent. I don’t think it was good enough last season because I’m coming from playing in the Champions League final [with Inter].

“[Winning] the FA Cup is important but not enough for Manchester United. The targets have to be really high, and we will go for it this season.

“I’m really excited about the new signings and I think with the way my teammates are working hard every day, I’m very positive.

“As the best club in the country, the perspective is always high – it’s to win everything, fight for every single game, be more consistent. We already showed in the past games we can beat anyone so we’re going to fight to win everything.”

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