Andre Onana’s early performances have surprised Manchester United fans since his £47 million summer signing from Inter Milan. According to rumours, Erik ten Hag will be without his new goalkeeper for the winter due to a change in his international status.
United have started the season cautiously, with an unimpressive victory against Wolves and a disappointing defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.
However, Onana has given a welcome change of pace at the heart of Ten Hag’s defense, displaying breathtaking passing range and the ability to command his area.
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David de Gea struggled with both attributes, prompting Ten Hag to release him at the end of his contract in July.
African signings are always accompanied by concerns over their participation in the Africa Cup of Nations, which takes place every two years in the middle of the season.
However, Onana’s international status was a big benefit of his arrival, having retired from Cameroon service after a falling out with manager Rigobert Song at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
However, a rumored U-turn on Onana’s Cameroon career may be ready to deal United a hard blow ahead of the new year.
The 27-year-old is likely to rejoin Song’s squad during the September international break, according to Cameroonian publication La Taniere.
On September 12, Cameroon will meet Burundi in AFCON qualifying, with the goal of qualifying with Namibia out of Group C.
According to the article, Onana has been discussing a possible return with the Cameroonian administration.
If Onana returns to international duty, he might miss United’s first four games in 2024. It’s an issue that Liverpool fans have gotten accustomed to with Mohamed Salah.
AFCON will take place from January 13 to February 11, 2024, coinciding with the return of football after the winter break.
If Cameroon wins the World Cup, Onana might miss United’s home games against Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United, as well as away games against Wolves and Aston Villa.
