Ruben Amorim informs Man United hierarchy he considers Andre Onana a “key player” | OneFootball

Ruben Amorim has informed the Manchester United board that Andre Onana will be a “key player” in his rebuild at Old Trafford, according to a report from Spain.

Onana endured a miserable campaign between the sticks for United last season, making a series of high-profile mistakes following Amorim’s arrival from Sporting CP in November to replace Erik ten Hag, despite beginning the year in fine form.

Amorim continued to trust the Cameroon international throughout these error-strewn displays, though this is likely due to the fact deputy goalkeeper, Altay Bayindir, performed even more shakily in his stead.

Onana has been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League and cast doubt on his future at Old Trafford with a cryptic response to a question during a charity event in Burkina Faso.

The 29-year-old was asked directly whether he believes he will United this summer. He replied, “I don’t know, we will see,” despite numerous reports indicating he expects to remain in goal for the Red Devils next season.

United are thought to be on the hunt for a new number two with Bayindir expected to leave in search of more first-team minutes. The club are directing the bulk of its summer budget towards the forward line, leaving little for defensive reinforcements.

As such, a new goalkeeper is being targeted to provide depth and competition for Onana at a cheaper price, rather than to outright replace the Cameroonian, despite desperation from the fanbase for the latter to happen.

United have been linked with a move for Royal Antwerp goalkeeper Senne Lammens or a reunion with Torino shot stopper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic – both cost-effective options who will not break the bank.

But the Red Devils also logged an enquiry with Gianluigi Donnarumma over an ambitious swoop for the Paris-Saint Germain star as they saw him as unique market opportunity to upgrade Onana. Similarly, the club are also linked with Aston Villa number one Emiliano Martinez, suggesting the potential to replace the Cameroonian is being  actively considered at Old Trafford.

However, Spanish outlet Fichajes reveals Amorim has now “close[d] the door” on Onana’s potential exit, informing the club’s hierarchy he intends to keep the 29-year-old as a “key player” within his rebuild of the United squad.

“Despite the Cameroonian goalkeeper’s numerous errors during his time in the Premier League, he continues to receive internal support, especially from manager Rúben Amorim, who has informed the board of his intention to include him as a key player in his project.

“Amorim, who wants to give Manchester United a boost in his first full season at Old Trafford, sees Onana as an ideal fit for building from the back, thanks to his technical prowess and ability to play with his feet. The manager, known for his attacking style and for choosing players who fit his tactical model, believes the goalkeeper can redeem himself with a more solid structure and a well-defined game plan.”

This is a bold move by the Portuguese coach based on the Jekyll and Hyde style performances Onana has produced since arriving from Inter Milan in 2023. And history tells us it is one he could grow to regret quickly next season.

But the likelihood is Amorim has not specifically categorised Onana as a “key player” for his rebuild. Rather, due to the club’s limited budget, the former Sporting manager is most likely accepting Onana for another season, while banking on a replacement for Bayindir arriving to provide a better fail safe if the Cameroonian’s dismal form persists next year.

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