Andre Onana’s arrival at Manchester United under the command of Erik ten Hag was initially filled with revolutionary promise. There was great hope that the Cameroonian goalkeeper would change the Red Devils’ playing style, introducing a modern concept of football with his ability to play from the back.
However, reality paints a different picture. Onana has instead found himself trapped in a circle of criticism that erodes his self-confidence. His previously touted ability to play with his feet now seems futile as his team struggles to cope with opposing pressure.
A series of fatal errors seem to haunt Onana’s performance. Matches against Brighton & Hove Albion and Nottingham Forest serve as real evidence of the goalkeeper’s fragile self-belief.
The most shocking moment came during the game against Ipswich Town on February 26. Poor communication with Patrick Dorgu led to Jaden Philogene-Bidace’s goal, once again highlighting fatal weaknesses in decision-making.
While it can be understood that a goalkeeper’s performance partially depends on the teamwork of their teammates, Onana appears to be struggling to find a balance between playing from the back and saving the goal.