Report: United star handed fresh hope amid exit talk | OneFootball

Ruben Amorim’s Bold Decision: Turning the Tables at Manchester United

Ruben Amorim has pulled off a dramatic U‑turn over Andre Onana’s future, according to Spanish outlet Fichajes. Initially tipped for departure after a rocky campaign, the Cameroonian goalkeeper has now been reaffirmed as a “key player” in the squad rebuild—an unexpected twist that could prove pivotal for Manchester United’s next chapter.

Onana’s Rollercoaster Season

Onana’s 2024/25 season was a tale of two halves. He began strongly under Erik ten Hag but soon became prone to mistakes, culminating in a series of high-profile errors that shook fans’ confidence. Despite these setbacks, Amorim stuck with him, even as backup Altay Bayindir failed to seize his chance.

The summer transfer window has seen United linked with big names like Donnarumma, Lammens, Bułka and Vanja Milinković‑Savić, with Emiliano Martinez very much in the picture. Yet Onana himself has remained tight-lipped on his future, admitting he “does not know” what lies ahead. Now, though, he seems to have secured a reprieve.

Amorim’s Vision: Building From the Back

Per Fichajes, Amorim has explicitly urged the board not to pursue Onana’s sale, insisting he remains integral to United’s future. The Portuguese coach reportedly values Onana’s technical skill and willingness to build plays from the back—qualities that fit with Amorim’s preferred style of possession and structure.

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Amorim evidently believes Onana can regain form within a stronger defensive framework. He’s backing the shot-stopper to “redeem himself with a more solid structure and a well‑defined game plan,” Fichajes reports.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As a Manchester United supporter, I’m cautiously optimistic about Ruben Amorim’s decision to back Andre Onana. On the surface, it seems a bold, slightly risky call—but there are clear positives here too.

First, dressing room continuity matters. Onana has worn the gloves for United during a turbulent season. Retaining him sends a message of stability at a time when so much else is changing. Fans often underestimate the importance of having at least some familiar faces during transitional periods.

Second, Amorim’s vision—building from the back—aligns with modern football trends. A keeper who can pass out from the back quickly and cleanly is invaluable in possession-heavy systems. Onana has demonstrated he can do this; under the right system and with better defensive structure, he has potential to flourish.

However, United cannot afford complacency. If Onana is to stay, he must show marked improvement in decision-making and consistency. The club’s ambition demands reliable performers, especially in high-stakes matches. Onana must justify Amorim’s faith by sealing up the defence and minimising high-profile errors.

Were I advising United, I’d say: grant Onana the chance—money saved on a keeper can be redirected to reinforcing midfield or defence. But make his role conditional: hit a set of clear performance targets, or the club must reevaluate during the next transfer window.

If Onana delivers, this gamble could prove shrewd. If not, United risk having delayed investing in the position. Either way, the boldness of Amorim’s stance signals a clear shift in how this squad is being shaped—understanding talent retention as a positive, not just a fallback.