Manchester United’s decision to offload Andre Onana has been deemed wise by the agent of the club’s newly-signed goalkeeper Senne Lammens. Mark Volders, who represents Lammens, disclosed that the decision to let go of Onana was made towards the close of the summer transfer window.
Last season proved challenging for the Red Devils as Onana, a former Inter Milan star, delivered a series of disappointing performances characterised by frequent errors. Initially replaced by Altay Bayindir this season, the Cameroonian only managed a solitary appearance in the League Cup clash against Grimsby, where United exited the competition in a disdainful defeat. Onana conceded twice in regular play and remarkably 12 penalties, marking what could likely be his final appearance in a United shirt before his subsequent loan move to Turkish side Trabzonspor.
Volders acknowledges that there was internal club sentiment for Onana to stay, allowing Lammens time to assimilate. However, a late shift in strategy saw the club part ways with Onana in favour of the Belgian shot-stopper. Reflecting on this reshuffle, Volders alluded to some fans hoping for marquee signings such as Gianluigi Donnarumma or Emiliano Martínez. Nonetheless, he concluded that the faith placed in Lammens has been justified as he exhibits a far steadier presence compared to his predecessor.
Onana’s current form appears unimpressive, conceding 19 goals in 13 appearances for Trabzonspor and managing merely three clean sheets. This, in turn, underscores United’s strategic shift towards Lammens as they invest in future stability.
Peter Schmeichel, the iconic former United goalkeeper, publicly extolled Lammens’ abilities, admiring his poise and swift transitional play. Schmeichel praised the 23-year-old for inspiring confidence in the defensive line, his proactive distribution skills, and his capacity to orchestrate swift counter-attacks.
As the season unfolds, Trabzonspor lacks a purchase option on Onana, yet should Lammens sustain his promising trajectory, United may seek to offload the goalkeeper permanently in the summer transfer window.