Sophia
A new report has shed light on the decisive moment Manchester United opted to pursue a new goalkeeper this summer, signaling the end of André Onana’s two-year tenure at Old Trafford. Manager Ruben Amorim was reportedly “dissatisfied” with several aspects of Onana’s preseason attitude, ultimately leading to the goalkeeper being on the brink of a loan move to Türkiye.
Amorim’s Ruthless Overhaul
Since his arrival, Amorim has demonstrated a clear, no-nonsense approach, with several high-profile players already falling short of his demanding standards. Marcus Rashford, for instance, was swiftly sidelined from first-team activities barely a month into the Portuguese boss’s reign after failing to meet the required training intensity.
Other notable departures include Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, and Jadon Sancho. These moves represent a deliberate effort to reshape Amorim’s squad, shedding any figures deemed undesirable, even if it entails significant financial implications. Former United defender Rio Ferdinand is among those who have lauded this uncompromising strategy, which now sees Onana on the cusp of a loan deal with Trabzonspor.
Beyond the Blunders: Off-Pitch Issues Emerge
While the former Inter goalkeeper has certainly endured a string of high-profile blunders during his two years at Old Trafford, a revealing report from The Athletic suggests that his off-pitch actions also played a significant role in Amorim’s decision to push for a new goalkeeper.
Initially, United were not actively seeking a new shot-stopper as they headed into the new campaign. However, Amorim was reportedly unimpressed when Onana sustained a hamstring injury on the very first day of pre-season. Furthermore, the 29-year-old’s “expectation” that he would automatically be United’s starting goalkeeper for the new campaign also left his boss “dissatisfied.”
A “Big Personality” Ruffles Feathers
It’s also claimed that Onana “ruffled feathers” among some figures at the club due to his “big personality.” While it remains unclear whether Amorim was part of this group, the sentiment within the club appeared to be shifting.
The decision to sign a new goalkeeper, initially put forward by director of football Jason Wilcox, gained crucial backing from co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe following the first Premier League game of the season against Arsenal. Onana had been surprisingly dropped for that fixture in favor of Altay Bayındır, who unfortunately failed to impress, notably flapping at Declan Rice’s corner, which led to the game’s only goal.
Financial Incentives and a Shifting Stance
Intriguingly, Onana was initially advised to hold off on securing a new club. However, this stance dramatically shifted following the Deadline Day arrival of Senne Lammens, signaling a clear change in United’s plans for their goalkeeping department.
Onana’s impending exit isn’t entirely one-sided. The Cameroon international was expected to discuss the salary cut he – and the rest of the squad – has received since failing to qualify for the Champions League. Not only has that awkward conversation with United’s hierarchy been shelved, but he is also expected to earn roughly double his £120,000-per-week wage at Trabzonspor, making the move financially appealing for the player.
This saga underscores Amorim’s commitment to instilling a new culture at Manchester United, prioritizing attitude and discipline alongside talent. Onana’s departure, driven by a combination of on-field performance and off-field conduct, marks a significant moment in the club’s ongoing restructuring.
