Why André Onana is Celebrated in Türkiye Despite His Man United Setbacks
André Onana, the Cameroonian goalkeeper, is currently capturing attention in Türkiye despite earlier setbacks at Manchester United. His performance in the Turkish Süper Lig has been pivotal, especially as he prepares to face Galatasaray, the team where his struggles first gained prominence.
The Challenging Past at Manchester United
Onana’s journey with Manchester United was marked by a series of high-profile errors. His most notable mistakes occurred during a 3-3 draw against Galatasaray, which ultimately dashed United’s hopes for the Champions League knockout stages. That night, Galatasaray fans displayed a banner reading ‘your nightmare is back again,’ highlighting Onana’s troubled experience.
Initially hailed as a significant acquisition following his impressive stint at Inter Milan, Onana’s time at Old Trafford saw his reputation tarnished. Consequently, he transferred to Trabzonspor on loan this summer with a clear objective: to rejuvenate his career.
Revitalization at Trabzonspor
Since joining Trabzonspor, Onana has worked diligently to transform his image. His debut against Fenerbahce showcased his skills, despite the team’s loss. Now, he boasts an impressive save percentage of 77.8%, ranking among the best in Europe. Trabzonspor fans have affectionately dubbed him ‘the wall’ for his stellar performances.
Onana’s contributions have positioned Trabzonspor in second place in the Süper Lig, where they are currently on a four-match winning streak. He has also managed to secure two clean sheets, further solidifying his role as a fan favorite.
Expert Insight on Onana’s Progress
Sinan Yener, an expert from Transfermarkt, provided insight into Onana’s impact in Türkiye. He emphasized how Onana has regained his confidence and become a reliable presence for both teammates and fans.
- Onana’s mistakes have diminished, showcasing improvement in focus and leadership.
- Trabzonspor’s success is significantly attributed to his performances, as he approaches the match against Galatasaray.
Future Prospects
Onana’s successful tenure at Trabzonspor is advantageous for Manchester United, who plan to sell him next summer. Currently valued at €20 million, his substantial wages might affect potential buyers. Despite Trabzonspor’s interest in making the loan permanent, financial constraints could hinder their ability to proceed.
Trabzonspor has never invested beyond €7 million for a player, raising questions on their capacity to meet United’s asking price, which might reach €15-20 million. The next months will be crucial for Onana as he seeks redemption at a venue imbued with past challenges.
