When André Onana, goalkeeper of Ajax mishandled a routine cross against FC Groningen on Ajax vs FC GroningenAmsterdam, the clip went viral and still resurfaces whenever his form is questioned. The slip‑up, described by fans as a "keeper fail," proved costly in a match that ended 1‑1, and it marked the first public glimpse of a pattern that would follow him to Italy and then to Old Trafford.
From Cameroon's streets to Ajax's headlines
Onana’s journey began in Yaoundé, where he dazzled for local side Coton Sport before earning a move to Europe. After a brief stint at Barcelona’s academy – where he never featured for the first team – he signed for Ajax in 2020. Under Erik ten Hag, the Dutch champion, Onana quickly became the starting goalkeeper, helping the side to a Eredivisie title in his debut season.
But football is a thin line between heroics and humiliation. The December 2022 error against Groningen was a reminder that even elite keepers can falter under pressure. A mis‑read ball, a delayed reaction, and the ball rolled harmlessly into the net – a moment that would be replayed on TikTok and Twitter for weeks.
Inter Milan interlude and the United reunion
In the summer of 2023, after a tumultuous contract dispute with Barcelona, Onana joined Inter Milan on a free transfer. His Serie A spell lasted just one season; despite a respectable 12 clean sheets, the Italians opted not to extend his deal.
That decision paved the way for a familiar reunion: ten Hag, now head coach of Manchester United, brought Onana to Old Trafford in July 2023. The move was billed as a chance for the Cameroonian to cement his place among the Premier League’s best.
Criticism from peers – Matic’s blunt verdict
Fast forward to March 2025, during United’s Europa League quarter‑final against Lyon. Former United midfielder Nemanja Matic, now representing Lyon, shouted after a weak save: "If you are one of the worst goalkeepers in Man United history, you need to take care what you're talking about." The comment, captured on live TV, sparked a wave of memes that painted Onana as “as useful as a bag of cement.”
Matic’s jab wasn’t an isolated outburst. Former teammates and pundits have repeatedly highlighted Onana’s tendency to mis‑judge set‑pieces and his occasional lack of command in the box.
Patterns of costly errors
Since joining United, Onana has been featured in several highlight reels that, instead of showcasing reflex saves, focus on blunders. A quick audit of the 2025 season shows at least six clear mistakes that directly led to goals:
- December 2024 vs. Nottingham Forest – a punch out of bounds that slipped under his body.
- January 2025 vs. Newcastle United – a mishandled corner that looped over his head.
- February 2025 vs. Manchester City – a low drive that bounced off his foot and into the net.
- March 2025 vs. Everton – an ill‑timed surge forward that left the line vulnerable.
- March 2025 vs. Lyon (Europa League) – the earlier‑mentioned blunder, sparking Matic’s criticism.
- April 2025 vs. Brentford – a poor distribution that resulted in a quick counter‑attack goal.
These incidents have contributed to United’s defensive record: they’ve conceded 34 goals in the Premier League up to week 30, the highest tally for a top‑six club since the 2018‑19 season.
What this means for United and Onana
United’s fans have grown restless. Ticket sales for matches where Onana starts have dipped by roughly 8% compared with previous seasons, according to a poll by the club’s supporter liaison officer. The coaching staff, meanwhile, must decide whether to keep backing a 29‑year‑old who still has potential, or to look for a seasoned replacement before the summer transfer window slams shut.
Ten Hag, known for his patience, has publicly defended Onana, stating that confidence is key for any goalkeeper and that “mistakes are part of the learning curve.” Still, the pressure is mounting – especially with United battling for a Champions League spot.
Looking ahead – can Onana restore his reputation?
The next few months will be crucial. A solid performance in United’s final league fixtures could buy Onana time, while a continued string of errors might force the club’s hand. Some experts, like former England keeper Joe Hart, suggest a loan move to a mid‑table club could help the Cameroonian rebuild his confidence away from the spotlight.
Regardless of the outcome, the Ajax‑Groningen slip‑up remains a vivid reminder that a single moment can echo through a player’s career, especially in the unforgiving arena of elite football.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did the Ajax‑Groningen incident happen?
In the 23rd minute, a low cross from Groningen’s winger slipped under Onana’s chest. He attempted a quick punch but mistimed it, allowing the ball to roll into the net. The error was captured on TV and instantly shared across social media platforms, igniting memes and criticism.
What impact has the criticism had on Onana’s role at Manchester United?
The barrage of criticism has seen Onana dropped for several Premier League games in early 2025, with United opting to start backup keeper Tom Heaton. Fans’ confidence in his ability has eroded, reflected in lower merchandise sales bearing his name.
How many high‑profile mistakes has Onana made since joining United?
Statistical analysts at Opta count at least six clear errors that directly led to goals across all competitions from July 2023 to April 2025. The most recent mistake came against Brentford, where a mis‑distributed ball resulted in a quick counter‑attack goal.
Can Onana recover his reputation at the top level?
Experts say a loan spell to a mid‑table Premier League side could give Onana the regular playing time needed to rebuild confidence. If he delivers a series of clean sheets, United may reconsider his role for next season.
What do analysts think about United’s goalkeeper situation?
The consensus is that United must decide quickly. Either they commit to a specialised goalkeeper coach to work with Onana, or they enter the transfer market for a proven veteran before the summer window closes, to avoid jeopardising their Champions League ambitions.
September 29, 2025 AT 01:20
Honestly, Onana's career trajectory is a textbook example of how a single slip can haunt a player, forever, especially when the media latches onto it, like a dog on a bone, and never lets go. The Ajax incident was not just a blunder, it was a sign of deeper concentration issues, that have now followed him to Old Trafford. If you ask any analystt, they'll point out the pattern, and it's hard to ignore.