Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana is reportedly stunned by a recent reduction in his wages
Andre Onana has reportedly been left shocked after his salary at Manchester United was reduced, a direct result of the club’s failure to qualify for this season’s UEFA Champions League. Despite his patchy performances, the Red Devils are finding it difficult to offload the Cameroonian shot-stopper, as financial restrictions mean they can’t accept anything below £26 million for his transfer.
The 29-year-old has endured a turbulent campaign, with his mistakes under the spotlight, most notably in the Europa League quarter-final first leg against Lyon. Two crucial errors from him allowed the French side to snatch a 2-2 draw, a performance that saw manager Ruben Amorim drop him entirely from the squad for their next outing — a demoralising 4-1 loss to Newcastle. Amorim explained the decision was made to give the keeper a chance to reset mentally following a string of disappointing showings.
Onana arrived at Old Trafford in the summer of 2023, completing a £43.8 million move from Inter Milan and agreeing to a five-year deal. The club structured the transfer fee over the length of his contract, meaning his current accounting value stands at around £26 million. Accepting a lower bid would force United to declare a financial loss, something they are desperate to avoid given their ongoing financial challenges.
It’s believed Onana expressed his displeasure over the unexpected pay cut to former sporting director Dan Ashworth, highlighting his surprise at the development. Meanwhile, Amorim stood by his choice to sideline the keeper, insisting it was necessary to help him recover from the psychological strain of high-profile errors.
Since the beginning of the 2023-24 season, no Premier League goalkeeper has made more mistakes leading directly to goals than Onana, who’s been responsible for nine. Yet, despite this unwanted record, United’s hopes of selling him appear slim as no club seems willing to meet their asking price. The club now faces the prospect of either sending him out on loan or retaining him as a backup option.
Compounding United’s goalkeeping issues, second-choice stopper Altay Bayındır also faltered during the heavy defeat to Newcastle, with his reckless play drawing criticism from pundits, including former captain Roy Keane. The situation has fuelled speculation about potential reinforcements, with names like Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsdale being linked as possible replacements.
Off the pitch, Onana has also found himself in the headlines, most recently for an exchange with ex-United midfielder Nemanja Matic, who branded him one of the club’s worst ever keepers. The Cameroonian responded by pointing to the trophies he’s won at Old Trafford, though his recent performances have done little to silence his critics.
As the second leg against Lyon looms, there’s plenty of curiosity over whether Onana will be restored to the starting lineup and if he can steady the ship in what’s been a difficult chapter of his career.
