Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana interrupted a reporter to take full responsibility for the number of goals the team has conceded this season.
The Premier League season has been challenging for Erik ten Hag’s side, with defeats against Spurs, Arsenal, and Brighton in their first five games.
United’s recent loss at Old Trafford was particularly significant. After the match, it was revealed that the club had conceded more than one goal in four consecutive league games for the first time since 1979.
The team’s poor form has prompted questions about the performances of several players, including Andre Onana, who has faced criticism for his shot-stopping abilities after allowing 10 goals in five games.
Before Wednesday night’s Champions League match against Bayern Munich, a reporter brought up this issue, and Onana’s response, taking responsibility, has been widely praised by many.
Love Andre Onana’s character. Such a confidence in the way he goes about answering awkward questions.pic.twitter.com/FkCYrawhtd
— Alex Turk (@AlexCTurk) September 20, 2023
Here’s how the conversation went down:
Reporter: “You have let in ten goals and I know it’s not your fault…”
Onana: “No, no, no. Listen. We are in this together. We win together and we lose together. If we keep a clean sheet, it’s for all of us. When we concede goals, the responsibility is on Andre Onana.”
He added: “My teammates are working hard and if they have to point finger, they have to point it at me, because I’m the goalkeeper.”
In his pre-match press conference ahead of the clash against Bayern, Onana opened up about United’s tricky start to the season, as well as his much-talked-about ability with the ball at his feet.
He said: “I don’t think I’m here because I’m good with my feet. First I have to save the goals, that’s why I’m here.
“The most important is the team, we are here to win. If the team needs me with my feet, I will be good with my feet. but it depends on the situation, a high block or a low block.
“Replacing David [De Gea] isn’t something easy. The start of the season is not what we want. It will come, I’m very confident. We all have to step up.
“We didn’t start well but I’m confident we’ll get it right. When I see how we’re working I’m confident and excited.”
Thoughts on Onana’s start to life at Manchester United? Let us know in the comments.