Former Manchester United goalkeeper Massimo Taibi has weighed in on André Onana’s difficult start to life at Old Trafford, suggesting the Cameroonian shot-stopper should consider leaving the club if he fails to improve his form.
Taibi, remembered for his infamous error against Southampton’s Matt Le Tissier in 1999, empathized with Onana’s struggles but warned that expectations at a club of United’s stature leave little room for prolonged dips in performance.
Onana, signed from Inter Milan in the summer, has faced criticism for costly mistakes in key matches. While Taibi understands the pressures of guarding United’s goal, he believes Onana must quickly regain his confidence to justify his position and avoid an early exit.
United manager Ruben Amorim has backed Onana publicly, but with competition intensifying and scrutiny mounting, the 27-year-old will need to turn his fortunes around to solidify his role as United’s No. 1.
4Andre Onana should leave Man Utd according to one former Red DevilCredit: Getty
4Onana has made a number of errors in recent weeks including allowing a goal straight in from a cornerCredit: Getty
4The verdict comes from ex-United goalie Massimo TaibiCredit: PA:Press Association
4Taibi was famous for allowing a Matt Le Tissier shot to squirm under him in 1999
Cameroonian goalkeeper André Onana, 28, has faced mounting criticism for a series of errors since joining Manchester United from Inter Milan in July 2023. His struggles reached a peak on Boxing Day when he conceded directly from a Matheus Cunha corner during a loss to Wolves.
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Massimo Taibi, 54, has offered his perspective, suggesting that Onana might need to consider a fresh start elsewhere to regain his confidence and form.
Taibi remarked, “I’d be straight to the point and tell him, ‘André, you are one of the best keepers in Europe, but in the Premier League, you are underperforming.’”
The remarks add to the growing debate surrounding Onana’s future at Old Trafford, as questions persist over his ability to adapt to the demands of the English game.
Massimo Taibi has urged André Onana to take decisive action to address his struggles at Manchester United. The former goalkeeper emphasized the importance of resilience and introspection, offering advice on how Onana might navigate this challenging period in his career.
“Block out criticism, do some soul-searching, press the reset, and go again,” Taibi said. “And if things don’t change by June, move on.”
He elaborated, “I think subconsciously, the United environment isn’t ideal for him, and when a marriage is showing cracks, it’s pointless to continue.”
Taibi suggested that sometimes a fresh start is the best solution, stating, “Sometimes things don’t work out at a team, and it’s best to go separate ways, which would not be a failure.”
Calling Onana a “strong goalkeeper,” Taibi acknowledged his abilities but questioned his fit for the English game. “He’s in a situation where he can’t show his skills because he is not cut out for the English game,” he concluded.
The comments reflect growing concerns about Onana’s future at Old Trafford, as doubts linger over his adaptation to the Premier League.
“He’s only suited to the Prem when it comes to his ball-playing ability and structure.”
Taibi — who allowed Le Tissier’s long-range shot to go through his legs, into the net — believes Onana would excel in Italy or France.
Ahead of Newcastle’s visit tomorrow, Massimo Taibi continued to share his thoughts on André Onana’s struggles at Manchester United, suggesting the Cameroonian goalkeeper might be better suited to leagues outside England.
Taibi stated, “Andre’s a better fit for an Italian or French team. For English football, you need a goalkeeper who is more imposing, regularly comes off his line using his fists, and has a different saving technique.”
Reflecting on Onana’s move to Old Trafford, Taibi remarked, “In his place, I’d not have left Inter, where he was a big shot. He made a calculated risk thinking he would slot in seamlessly at Manchester United, but it backfired.”
Despite his criticisms, Taibi praised Onana’s overall ability. “Even though he hasn’t lived up to expectations, he remains a top keeper, one of the best in Europe,” he added.
Onana’s form will be under scrutiny as United prepare to face Newcastle, with fans hoping the 28-year-old can turn his season around.