Former Nigeria international Ike Shorunmu in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa advised Andre Onana to prioritise his well being when deciding his next move, amid uncertainty over his future at Manchester United.
The Cameroon goalkeeper is currently on loan at Turkish side Trabzonspor following a difficult spell at Old Trafford. Reports suggest United are willing to listen to offers for the 28-year-old when he returns from Turkey this summer, although Onana has not ruled out fighting for his place.
Speaking exclusively to Footy-Africa, Shorunmu said the goalkeeper should carefully assess his options:
“Everyone wants to play for a big club, but sometimes you encounter circumstances that weigh on your spirit. He needs to choose where he feels most comfortable. He should prioritise his happiness and make a decision that impacts his life and his family positively.”
Onana joined United from Inter Milan in a £47m deal in 2023 but struggled to establish himself as a consistent replacement for David de Gea.
Despite that, he has impressed during his loan spell in Turkey, with Trabzonspor reportedly keen to retain him on a permanent basis. However, the Turkish club may find it difficult to meet United’s valuation.
Andre Onana to Trabzonspor – loan deal + £10.35m wages – Transfer breakdown
Shorunmu believes the decision ultimately rests with the player.
“If he feels right returning to Manchester, why not? If he prefers staying in Turkey, why not? It depends on his mindset,” he added. “He has done exceptionally well in Turkey and has truly proved himself.”
The former Besiktas goalkeeper also backed Onana’s quality despite his struggles in England.
“He is a top-quality player. If he wasn’t, Manchester United wouldn’t have signed him,” Shorunmu said. “His journey—from France to Italy, then the Premier League, and now Turkey—speaks for itself.”
Shorunmu also highlighted the challenges faced by goalkeepers at the highest level:
“It is not easy for a Black goalkeeper to command a starting shirt at major European clubs, and I give him a lot of credit for that.”
