27 February 2026:
Cameroonian goalkeeper André Onana says he is ready to fight for his future at Manchester United and hopes to reclaim the club’s No. 1 goalkeeper spot when he returns from his loan spell with Trabzonspor this summer. Onana’s comments come amid ongoing uncertainty about his long-term role at Old Trafford and a reshaped goalkeeper hierarchy that currently favours a younger rival.
Cameroonian goalkeeper André Onana says he is ready to fight for his future at Manchester United and hopes to reclaim the club’s No. 1 goalkeeper spot when he returns from his loan spell with Trabzonspor this summer. Onana’s comments come amid ongoing uncertainty about his long-term role at Old Trafford and a reshaped goalkeeper hierarchy that currently favours a younger rival.
🔄 From First Choice to Loan Departure
Onana initially joined Manchester United in July 2023 from Inter Milan on a long-term contract worth around £44 million, with hopes that he would succeed club legends and become a reliable mainstay between the posts. However, inconsistency and notable errors during his time in England led to doubts about his position. After struggling for form, he was sent out on a season-long loan to Turkish side Trabzonspor in September 2025 as part of the club’s reshuffle of goalkeeping options.
While in Turkey, Onana has worked to rediscover his confidence and consistency — hoping to convince Manchester United’s coaching staff that he still belongs at the centre of their plans.
🧠 “I Want to Fight for My Spot”
Speaking about his future, Onana has made it clear that he wants another chance at Old Trafford:
“I want to return to Manchester United, compete, and re-establish myself as the No. 1 goalkeeper.” — Onana, on his hopes for next season.
His determination comes despite the emergence of Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who has impressed since signing from Royal Antwerp and has taken over as United’s regular starter with composed performances. The young Belgian has kept several clean sheets and drawn praise from United’s interim management for his calm presence — raising the bar for any goalkeeper hoping to wear the Red Devils’ gloves.
🏁 The Challenge Ahead
Onana faces a difficult task if he is to reclaim the No. 1 spot. While he believes the club will give him an opportunity to compete during pre-season training once he returns from Trabzonspor, there is no guarantee he will displace Lammens, who has established himself as the first choice this season.
Additionally, there are reports that United may be open to selling Onana this summer, partly due to ongoing efforts to restructure the squad’s goalkeeping department. Some insiders suggest that the club has “no intention” of reintegrating him, favouring a rebuild around the younger option or even recruiting a new experienced keeper.
📊 United’s Goalkeeping Situation
The Red Devils’ goalkeeping picture has seen significant shifts:
🏁 The Challenge Ahead
Onana faces a difficult task if he is to reclaim the No. 1 spot. While he believes the club will give him an opportunity to compete during pre-season training once he returns from Trabzonspor, there is no guarantee he will displace Lammens, who has established himself as the first choice this season.
Additionally, there are reports that United may be open to selling Onana this summer, partly due to ongoing efforts to restructure the squad’s goalkeeping department. Some insiders suggest that the club has “no intention” of reintegrating him, favouring a rebuild around the younger option or even recruiting a new experienced keeper.
📊 United’s Goalkeeping Situation
The Red Devils’ goalkeeping picture has seen significant shifts:
- Senne Lammens (23) — currently established as the Premier League starter with five clean sheets in 21 appearances.
- Altay Bayindir — former first-choice before the Lammens breakout, now facing an uncertain future.
- Tom Heaton — veteran keeper expected to leave.
- Radek Vitek — returning from loan and another candidate to compete in pre-season.
With his contract running beyond 2028, Onana remains under a long deal, meaning any summer transfer involving him would likely see United take a financial hit if they opt to sell.
⚽ What This Means Going Forward
For Onana, the 2026/27 season represents a crucial crossroads. A strong pre-season, clear demonstrations of form, and a positive mindset could revive his Manchester United career. But if he fails to unseat Lammens or convince the club hierarchy of his long-term viability, his time at Old Trafford may come to an end sooner than he hopes.
Either way, the story of Onana’s attempt to re-establish himself at one of Europe’s most storied clubs will be one of the key personal narratives in the Premier League’s upcoming off-season.
⚽ What This Means Going Forward
For Onana, the 2026/27 season represents a crucial crossroads. A strong pre-season, clear demonstrations of form, and a positive mindset could revive his Manchester United career. But if he fails to unseat Lammens or convince the club hierarchy of his long-term viability, his time at Old Trafford may come to an end sooner than he hopes.
Either way, the story of Onana’s attempt to re-establish himself at one of Europe’s most storied clubs will be one of the key personal narratives in the Premier League’s upcoming off-season.
