Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana has made it clear he will adopt a risky style of play this season, despite facing criticism if it costs his team victories.
After an inconsistent first season at Old Trafford, Onana remains determined to prove his worth by adopting creative approaches on the pitch.
“Yes, that’s how I am,” Onana said confidently. “I think that’s what you’re going to see this season because I’m going to take a lot of risks. I can tell you that in advance. Be prepared because it’s going to be this season, trust me. I’ll enjoy it even more when this season starts.”
André Onana will take charge of his style
Onana stressed the importance of taking risks for the team’s success. “Because the best team in the world takes risks. Building from the back, recognizing things, situations, when the rival jumps one on one, or when they press with three or four,” he explained.
“It’s important for me to acknowledge these things and make the best decision for the team. I’ll take on a lot of responsibility and I think I have a big back to carry it all. I think it’s going to be a good season.”
The Cameroon international understands the criticism he received during his debut season. Despite not winning any awards, he believes he arrived from Inter Milan as the best goalkeeper in the world and was judged as such.
“When you’re a Manchester United player and you don’t win, it’s fair that they criticise you because, in the end, it’s part of the job,” said Onana. “We’re here for that and, as I come here as the best goalkeeper in the world, it’s normal that they’ve been hard on me because they expect a lot from me, but at the same time they also give me a lot of affection. You have to find a balance between that and criticism is sometimes good because you have to look back and see what wasn’t right.”
Onana admits that there are a lot of expectations at Manchester United, but he is optimistic about next season. “We have already shown in the last few games that we can beat anyone, so we are going to fight to win everything,” he said.
The 28-year-old is confident his best performances are yet to come and he feels comfortable at the club. “I think six months ago I felt at home,” said Onana. “It’s not always easy to adapt to a new country, a new league and new people around, but my teammates helped me a lot.”
With Onana’s bold approach, Manchester United fans can look forward to an exciting and risk-filled season.
