Andre Onana Embraces Criticism As Part Of Growth At Manchester United

Andre Onana has expressed his willingness to accept criticism following a challenging Premier League season with Manchester United. The team finished in eighth place, their lowest-ever position, leading to scrutiny of both the manager and players. Onana, who joined from Inter at the start of the season, faced significant criticism for his performances.

When asked about handling criticism from fans, pundits, and former players, Onana stated that it does not affect him. "For me, I don't pay attention to it. I have come into this team to take bullets because we are under construction at the moment; we are not the best," he told the Overlap. "We have other teams who are doing better than us, and we have to be honest and recognise that."

Onana emphasized that he is prepared to shoulder the blame rather than letting younger players face it. "If things and when things are going wrong, don't go for the youngest player. I'm here to take it; Bruno [Fernandes], Casemiro, and Harry [Maguire] are there, and we are used to it," he added.

Reflecting on criticism from former players, Onana found it peculiar but acknowledged their shared experiences. "When it's people who were sitting where I'm sitting, who won everything, sometimes it's bizarre. We are in the same boat. We try to follow your thing and what you did," he said.

Manchester United conceded 84 goals across all competitions this season, marking their worst-ever defensive record in a single campaign. Erik ten Hag's side also missed out on a European place due to their league finish but have another chance if they win against Manchester City in the FA Cup final on Saturday.

Despite the setbacks, Onana remains optimistic and views the season as a learning experience. "I'm happy because we have good people around us, especially at this club, who helped me so much," he said. "That's why I'm still smiling - because the first six months were difficult, but at the same time, it was a good moment to learn."

Onana reflected on his career highs and lows, noting that success can be fleeting. "After playing the final of the Champions League and the final of the Europa League, you think you are the best. Life gives you an opportunity to learn and says, 'You are never too big.' You can have a good season; next year you have a bad season, but the year after an amazing season," he remarked.

He concluded by highlighting the unique challenges faced by goalkeepers. "The ups and downs and being here, you have to deal with them - especially being a goalkeeper," Onana said.