Andre Onana: Is he really Manchester United’s worst goalkeeper?
Manchester United first-choice goalkeeper, Andre Onana. Photo Credit- Goal.com
Andre Onana since his sensational transfer from Inter Milan to Manchester United has been a subject of intense scrutiny, with critics, pundits and even fans of the club taking to various social media platforms are hastily labeling him as the club’s “worst goalkeeper.” Such statement, I however wondered or even say at least to be ridiculous considering his commendable track record at Inter Milan and the often overlooked aspect of the broader challenges currently facing Manchester United both on the pitch of play and in the club’s management level.
Onana’s superb performance at Inter Milan
Before his move to Old Trafford, Onana showcased exceptional skills at Inter Milan. During the 2022/23 Serie A season, he maintained a save percentage of 73.6%, conceding 24 goals in 24 appearances. His goalkeeping ability was even more pronounced in the UEFA Champions League, where he achieved an impressive 81% save rate over 13 matches, allowing only 11 goals. These statistics shows his reliability and shot-stopping capabilities on Europe’s biggest competition.
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Onana’s current season at Manchester United
Transitioning to the Premier League in the 2024/25 season, Onana has faced formidable challenges. As of February 24, 2025, he has participated in over 20 league matches, securing 7 clean sheets and making 71 saves. While he has conceded 37 goals. Hence, it has become necessary to recognize that goalkeeping statistics are often reflective of the team’s overall defensive performance. The greatest goalkeepers to be known in football’s history apart from their individual talent, were forged from the defense setup in the club they played in.
Debunking the criticisms on Onana
The criticisms directed at Onana often neglect the systemic issues that has plagued Manchester United for nearly a decade. The team has conceded 10 set-piece goals this season, with 8 occurring in the last 7 games under new manager Ruben Amorim. Such defensive weaknesses spotlights a broader tactical and organizational inefficiency rather than individual errors.
Moreover, Onana’s initial struggles can be attributed to the adaptation period required when transitioning to a new league and team dynamics. Despite early setbacks, he has demonstrated resilience and improvement, leading the league with 5 clean sheets in 12 games at one point, showcasing his potential to be a top-tier goalkeeper in the Premier League.
I bear no support of Onana’s goalkeeping errors that has cost the team points in many competitions but I wish to provide an understanding to fans and pundits that Onana like any other goalkeeper like Edwin van Der Sar or David de Gea who have played in the club are humans and are subject to having bad moments, making mistakes and not helping the team.
Similar with the previously mentioned United’s former goalkeepers and goalkeepers of other clubs, if Onana should be given a stable defensive setup like the one he enjoyed in Inter Milan, which can compensate for his individual weakness, he probably will produce the same moments that was seen in his previous club in Manchester United.
Conclusion
Labeling Andre Onana as Manchester United’s “worst goalkeeper” is a premature and misguided judgment. His exemplary performances at Inter Milan and his ongoing adaptation at Manchester United highlight his capabilities and potential. A clear evaluation, considering both individual statistics and team form, is essential before apportioning defamatory remarks on his competence.
