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Man Utd’s Goalkeeping Dilemma: Amorim Losing Patience with Onana

There is a certain irony to the goalkeeping situation at Manchester United. Not long ago, the club parted ways with David de Gea, a shot-stopper accused of being outdated in the modern game, and replaced him with André Onana—a goalkeeper famed for his distribution but increasingly culpable for costly errors.

Now, according to GiveMeSport, United’s hierarchy, led by Rúben Amorim, are growing frustrated with Onana’s performances and have begun assessing alternatives. The Cameroonian goalkeeper, who arrived from Inter Milan for £43.8 million, was a key signing under Erik ten Hag, but his high-profile mistakes have led to doubts over his long-term future.

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Onana Under Pressure as Errors Mount

Onana’s ability with the ball at his feet was meant to transform United’s build-up play. However, in the midst of a turbulent season, the 28-year-old has been scrutinised for repeated errors. His mistakes against Viktoria Plzen, Brighton, Nottingham Forest, and Ipswich Town have fuelled criticism, with United’s early Champions League exit cited as a major failure.

Reports suggest Amorim and his coaching staff have lost faith, seeing too many unforced errors and an increasing inability to command the penalty area with authority.

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Man Utd Weigh Up Potential Replacements

In response, United are exploring their options. Burnley’s James Trafford has emerged as a target, with GiveMeSport noting:

At just 21 years old, Trafford represents a long-term investment, but United’s interest also extends to FC Porto’s Diogo Costa.

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Diogo Costa’s Release Clause Poses a Challenge

Costa, a Portuguese international, has long been linked with a Premier League move. His £63 million release clause at Porto remains a stumbling block, with United reportedly considering whether to negotiate a lower fee. Given Porto’s financial constraints, there is a belief that a deal below the release clause could be possible.

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As United grapple with their goalkeeper dilemma, the coming months could determine whether Onana remains between the posts—or if the club moves in a new direction.

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For Manchester United fans, the idea of another major goalkeeping change so soon after Onana’s arrival is both frustrating and inevitable.

Onana was meant to be the progressive, modern goalkeeper who would revolutionise United’s play from the back. Instead, he has become a source of anxiety and uncertainty. His performances have been erratic, pulling off world-class saves one moment, then making basic errors the next. It’s a pattern that no top side can afford—especially in the Premier League.

The concern now is what comes next. James Trafford, while promising, is untested at the highest level. Making him United’s first-choice goalkeeper would be a huge risk, particularly for a team that needs immediate stability.

On the other hand, Diogo Costa is a proven shot-stopper, but his £63 million price tag is steep. If United do move for him, it signals a major shift in their transfer priorities, potentially limiting funds for reinforcements elsewhere.

Ultimately, United fans want consistency. Whether that comes from a renewed commitment to Onana or a fresh start with a new goalkeeper, the club must make the right decision—or risk another season of uncertainty between the posts.