Onana rejects Saudi move amid Man United struggles

Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana has rejected the opportunity to join the growing trend of players moving to Saudi Arabia, despite the temptation of a lucrative offer.

The 28-year-old Cameroon international has had a turbulent start to life at Old Trafford, with his performances attracting growing criticism.

Since his arrival last summer, Onana’s first season with United has been plagued by a series of costly mistakes, which have contributed to the club’s underwhelming position in the Premier League, sitting 13th in the table.

Despite the difficulties, the goalkeeper has been targeted by clubs in the Saudi Pro League, which is set to continue its spending spree in the upcoming transfer window.

However, Onana is determined to remain at Manchester United and fight for his place, reportedly turning down the chance for a fresh start in the Middle East. Onana is one of the players highlighted by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who mentioned the individuals the current ownership group “inherited” when taking over.

Ratcliffe revealed that United would still be paying off his £47.2 million transfer fee this summer, underscoring the financial commitment the club has made to the goalkeeper.

In an interview with BBC Sport, Ratcliffe discussed the challenges of dealing with previous signings: “We’ve inherited players like Antony, Casemiro, Onana, Hojlund, and Sancho. We have to address these issues moving forward.”

While Onana seems likely to stay, the futures of other players mentioned by Ratcliffe remain uncertain.

Antony has already left the club on loan and could be sold permanently this summer. Casemiro, a high earner, may also be moved, with interest from Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, Rasmus Hojlund is expected to remain despite a difficult season, but Jadon Sancho’s future is less clear, with a permanent move to Chelsea appearing increasingly unlikely.