In a revelation that has captured the attention of football fans worldwide, former Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana has finally opened up about the real reasons behind his surprising move to Trabzonspor.
The 27-year-old Cameroonian, who left Old Trafford after just one turbulent season, revealed that his decision was largely shaped by the influence of Ruben Amorim, whose progressive football philosophy and trust in player autonomy reignited his passion for the game.
Onana arrived at Manchester United last summer with enormous expectations following his outstanding performances for Inter Milan, where he played a vital role in guiding the club to the UEFA Champions League final.
His signing was seen as a major statement by United, as he was brought in to replace long-time goalkeeper David de Gea and bring a modern, ball-playing style to Erik ten Hag’s team. However, life in England quickly proved challenging.
The intense spotlight, unrelenting media criticism, and constant pressure to deliver at one of the world’s biggest clubs began to weigh heavily on him.
In a recent interview, Onana admitted that leaving United was one of the toughest decisions of his career but ultimately one he felt was necessary for his personal and professional growth.
“Leaving Manchester United wasn’t easy at all,” he confessed. “It’s one of the greatest clubs in the world, but sometimes you need a new beginning.
Ruben Amorim played a huge role in my decision. His vision of football — built on confidence, creativity, and freedom — really connected with me.”
Amorim, currently the Sporting Lisbon manager and a coach admired across Europe for his tactical brilliance and player management, reportedly convinced Onana that he needed an environment where he could rediscover his natural style.
According to Onana, Amorim’s ideas about how goalkeepers should function in the modern game were key. “In England, I sometimes felt restricted.
Amorim believes goalkeepers are more than shot-stoppers they should help start attacks and control the rhythm of play. That’s how I love to play: with courage, speed, and expression,” he explained.
Now embarking on a new journey with Trabzonspor, Onana described his move as both a challenge and an opportunity. “Trabzonspor is a club full of tradition and ambition,” he said.
“The fans are incredible, and I see this as a new chapter a chance to grow, contribute, and help the team reach its goals. I’m excited to be part of something special.”
Despite his difficult spell at Old Trafford, Onana expressed deep gratitude toward Manchester United. “It was a privilege to wear the United shirt,” he said. “Every experience there the highs and the lows taught me valuable lessons. It made me stronger and helped me mature as both a player and a person.”
Onana’s decision to swap the Premier League for the Turkish Süper Lig reflects a deeper story one about identity, belief, and rediscovery.
His transfer isn’t merely about footballing ambition or financial gain; it symbolizes his desire to find joy and confidence again in a system that suits his unique abilities
. Under Amorim’s influence and in a club that values creative freedom, Onana now hopes to re-establish himself as one of Europe’s elite goalkeepers.
As he begins this new adventure in Turkey, the football world will be watching closely to see if this bold move can help him regain the form and confidence that once made him one of the continent’s most admired shot-stoppers.
