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Manchester United are reportedly planning to keep Andre Onana as their goalkeeper for the 2025–26 season, following talks between the player’s representatives and club officials.
According to The Athletic, Onana’s camp met with key figures at Old Trafford last week, where it was decided the Cameroon international would remain part of the squad — though competition for his place could still be introduced.
Signed from Inter Milan in 2023 to replace David de Gea, Onana was brought in for his ball-playing abilities. United had sought a more modern goalkeeper, viewing the Spaniard’s style as outdated despite his reputation as a world-class shot-stopper.
However, the transition has not gone smoothly. Onana endured a difficult debut season, and despite flashes of quality, his form has been patchy. Errors in high-profile matches led to questions over his long-term suitability.
The decision to back the 29 year old for another year is being seen as a gamble.
United manager, Ruben Amorim, will be under pressure to stabilise a defence that has lacked confidence since Onana’s arrival.
It remains unclear whether Amorim is fully convinced by the goalkeeper. Managers often prefer to work with players they have selected themselves, and De Gea’s exit was orchestrated by Amorim’s predecessor, Erik ten Hag, in order to bring Onana in.
Despite reaffirming their support, the club is expected to move in the market to bring in a capable backup. This addition would serve both as cover and a challenge to Onana’s number one status.
One high-profile name previously linked with United was Marc-André ter Stegen, but recent reports indicate he is set to remain at Barcelona. That path now appears closed.
Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martínez has also been mentioned as a potential option. The Argentine has Premier League experience and a strong personality, but it is unclear whether Villa would be open to selling their first-choice keeper.
United’s goalkeeping plans are not yet finalised, but the club appears to be preparing for a scenario in which Onana starts the season as first choice while being closely monitored.
If another year of inconsistent form follows, the hierarchy may reconsider his position heading into the summer of 2026.
For now, Onana stays, but the scrutiny will not ease.
Featured image: Carl Recine via Getty Images
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