André Onana Reveals Arsenal and Chelsea Interest Before Manchester United Move

Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana has revealed that Arsenal and Chelsea were among the clubs that showed interest in signing him before he eventually made his £47.2 million move to Old Trafford in July 2023.

The Cameroonian shot-stopper, who previously had stints at Ajax and Inter Milan, admitted that his career path could have been different had he opted for another club.

Onana’s Path to Old Trafford

Before joining Manchester United, Onana had a successful six-year spell at Ajax, winning three Eredivisie titles and gaining recognition as one of Europe’s most skilled ball-playing goalkeepers.

After leaving Ajax, he joined Inter Milan on a free transfer, playing a key role in the club’s run to the UEFA Champions League final in 2023. His performances in Italy caught the attention of top clubs, leading to his eventual move to Manchester United as David de Gea’s replacement.

Chelsea, Arsenal, and Other Suitors

Speaking in an interview with Le Média Carré, Onana listed several clubs that had approached him during his Ajax days.

“I had Monaco, I had Nice, I had Atlético Madrid, I had Chelsea, Arsenal,” Onana revealed.

However, he noted that Lyon was the club he came closest to joining before eventually moving to Italy.

“Lyon. I spoke with the president and the technical director, so it was advanced anyway.
It was difficult for me to speak with the president because I had decided to learn Italian.”

Did Onana Make the Right Choice?

Since joining Manchester United, Onana has faced a mixed reception. While his distribution and shot-stopping abilities remain impressive, he has also been scrutinized for errors, particularly in the Champions League group stage.

Had he joined Chelsea or Arsenal, Onana might have had a different career trajectory—possibly competing with Aaron Ramsdale at Arsenal or stepping into Chelsea’s ongoing goalkeeper reshuffle.

As Manchester United continues to navigate an inconsistent season, fans will hope that Onana justifies the club’s faith in him. But could he have had a better experience elsewhere? 🤔🔥