Manchester United fans are increasingly resigned to their team’s poor performances, highlighted by a recent FA Cup defeat to Fulham. Despite fan support, the team faces a challenging end to a disappointing season, with hopes pinned on the Europa League for Champions League qualification.
The summer transfer window is anticipated to bring significant changes to Manchester United, with key decisions needed across the squad, particularly regarding the goalkeeper position.
Andre Onana’s Performance Under Scrutiny
Andre Onana’s recent performance against Fulham included some crucial saves, helping Manchester United reach a penalty shootout. However, his shootout performance was less convincing, with critics pointing out his tendency to dive early, giving Fulham an advantage. Additionally, his time-wasting during goal-kicks frustrated fans as the team chased a win.
Onana’s statistics compared to other Premier League goalkeepers reveal areas of concern:
| How Onana compares to PL goalkeepers | ||
|---|---|---|
| Stat | Record (per 90) | Ranking |
| Goals against | 1.44 | Top 44% |
| Save percentage | 67.3% | Bottom 32% |
| Save % (penalties) | 25% | Top 26% |
| Clean sheet % | 25.9% | Top 34% |
| Touches | 40.67 | Top 27% |
| Avg. length of goal kicks | 46.6 | Top 31% |
| Crosses stopped | 5.8% | Bottom 50% |
| Defensive actions outside area | 0.67 | Bottom 18% |
Despite Onana’s desire to remain at Manchester United, reports suggest that potential new manager Ruben Amorim is considering a new goalkeeper. Onana’s recent errors and inconsistent performances raise questions about his long-term future at the club.
Rasmus Hojlund’s Struggles and Uncertain Future
Rasmus Hojlund, another relatively recent arrival, also faced criticism during the Fulham match. Fans jeered his substitution, reflecting his struggles to find form. His performance against Fulham was lackluster, marked by few touches, lost possessions, and unsuccessful dribbles.
Hojlund, signed for a significant fee, has a modest goalscoring record for Manchester United. His struggles were further highlighted when compared to 17-year-old Chido Obi, who showed more dynamism and involvement after replacing him. Obi, despite being raw, demonstrated a better ability to create chances and hold up play.
Although Obi is ineligible for the Europa League, giving Hojlund a temporary reprieve, Hojlund’s long-term future at Manchester United appears uncertain. With Serie A clubs reportedly interested, and having been outperformed by a younger player, the £85k-per-week striker may be running out of time to prove his worth under a potential Amorim management.
Vihaan Mehrotra