Andre Onana has pledged to emulate the fighting spirit of one of his Manchester United team-mates after a rocky start at Old Trafford.
Despite bagging a 2-0 victory over Brighton on Sunday, United wrapped up their season in eighth place, representing their worst-ever Premier League finish. But Erik ten Hag’s squad hope to wash away some of their disappointment with silverware, as they gear up for an epic FA Cup final showdown with Manchester City.
Onana made glaring errors during his first few months at United, highlighting the immense challenge of filling David De Gea’s gloves. Yet, the 28-year-old goalkeeper has confessed to learning heaps from watching Harry Maguire’s gritty comeback amidst his own trials at Old Trafford.
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“I’ll tell you a small example. I have Harry [Maguire] in the dressing room,” Onana spilled to The Overlap, sponsored by Sky Bet. “When you see what he went through. What Harry faced, it was terrifying. He’s a big man, he showed a lot of character now he’s back and he’s one of the best we have. It’s important to look at this kind of example, because he passed through a difficult situation. Now he’s back and we move forward.”
Onana, who was snapped up for a hefty fee after reaching the Champions League final with Inter Milan, has opened up about his unexpected slump at United. Despite the setback, he’s still all smiles, thanks to the support network at the club. However, he is aware of the weight of expectation that comes with being United’s number one.
“I’m happy because we have good people around us, especially at this club, who helped me so much,” Onana shared. “That’s why I’m still smiling – because the first six months were difficult, but at the same time, it was a good moment to learn.”
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(Image: James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images)
The Cameroonian shot-stopper reflected on the humbling journey from European finals to Old Trafford challenges, saying: “After playing the final of the Champions League and the final of the Europa League, you think you are the best life gives you an opportunity to learn, and says ‘You are never too big’. Especially football it’s about momentum. You can have a good season, next year you have a bad season, but the year after an amazing season.”
He also acknowledged the pressure that comes with being part of a legacy of legendary United keepers. “The ups and downs and being here, you have to deal with them especially being a goalkeeper,” he continued.
“Not only because I’m coming from Inter, but also because many great goalkeepers have passed [at Manchester United]. Not only David De Gea, but also Edwin van der Sar, Peter Schmeichel they have done a lot of things for this club. Also, you guys [Gary Neville and teammates] – you have done a lot for this club.”
“When I wear the United jersey, it is heavy but for me, that is extra motivation because you guys were fantastic. You won everything, and we have to try to do similar, even if it’s not easy at the moment.”