Andre Onana had a baptism of
fire after joining
Manchester United from Inter Milan last summer, with a series of high-profile mistakes raising serious questions about his ability. Undoubtedly, Onana was the perfect fit for Erik ten Hag due to his ability to play out from the back, effectively operating as an 11th outfielder. He made more accurate long passes (116) than any other player in the
Champions League last season. But just 25 days after joining the club, Onana’s blushes were spared on his debut against Wolves, clattering through Sasa Kalajdzic in the closing stages after missing a punch. It was erratic, to say the least. The 27-year-old made more glaring errors, most notably in the Champions League where tame efforts squirmed under his body. He was making the headlines for all the wrong reasons. ALSO READ: United approach Southampton over Wilcox ALSO READ: Injury round-up and return dates vs
Chelsea Fast forward to April and Onana has turned a corner after a difficult start to life in
England. David de Gea suffered similar teething problems after he signed in the summer of 2011 from Atletico Madrid. It’s worth remembering that Sir Alex Ferguson jumped to the defence of De Gea in the early months of his United career. Onana was given similar backing from Ten Hag and he's coming good for his boss. By Onana’s own admission, it has taken “six or seven months” to reach his level after a difficult period at the club. He added: “My teammates, my players, they always reminded me who I am and the goalkeeper I am and why I came to this club.” Onana has shown he can spray passes like a midfielder, but it's his ability with his hands, rather than his feet, that is proving the doubters wrong after much more consistent displays. In the recent draw away at Brentford, the hosts peppered United with 31 shots. Onana had to make crucial saves to prevent his side from going behind. He has an air of confidence now, with his commanding presence in the box also helping to launch breakaways for United. His ability to get United on the front foot was something they lacked last season. There’ll still be nervy moments as he’s such a brave goalkeeper and the injury issues in defence this season must be taken into account when assessing his first term with the Reds. Onana will need to continue his impressive form if United want to be competing in the Champions League next season.