Former Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana has opened up about his surprising move to Turkish club Trabzonspor, revealing that his decision was largely inspired by Ruben Amorim’s football philosophy. The 27-year-old Cameroonian, who left Old Trafford after just one season, explained that he was drawn to Amorim’s belief in freedom, confidence, and creativity on the pitch — values that ultimately convinced him to seek a fresh start.
Onana joined Manchester United in the summer following an exceptional spell at Inter Milan, where his composure and ball-playing ability helped the team reach the UEFA Champions League final. His arrival at Old Trafford was initially seen as a major upgrade, positioning him as David de Gea’s natural successor. However, the intense pressure, high expectations, and constant scrutiny of life at United soon made his time in England more challenging than anticipated.
In an exclusive interview, Onana admitted that leaving United was an emotional and difficult decision. “It wasn’t easy to walk away from such a big club,” he said. “But I felt I needed a new challenge — a place where I could express myself fully again. Ruben Amorim’s ideas about football really influenced me. He gives players freedom, encourages confidence, and wants goalkeepers to play with courage. That’s the kind of environment I thrive in.”
Although Amorim currently manages Sporting Lisbon, his tactical approach has had a strong influence on many modern players, including Onana. The goalkeeper explained that Amorim’s modern, attack-oriented philosophy aligns closely with his own playing style. “In England, I sometimes felt restricted,” he confessed. “Amorim believes in goalkeepers who are part of the team’s buildup — who take risks and help drive attacks. That’s the football I love: bold, fast, and creative.”
For Onana, his move to Trabzonspor represents not just a change of club but a chance to rediscover joy and confidence in his game. He described the Turkish side as a “club with history, ambition, and incredible fans,” expressing excitement about contributing to their pursuit of success. “This is a new chapter for me, and I want to give everything for Trabzonspor,” he added.
Despite the challenges, Onana spoke warmly about his time at Manchester United, acknowledging the lessons he learned both professionally and personally. “It was an honour to play for United,” he said. “I’m grateful for the experience, but now it’s time to focus on the future.”
Ultimately, Onana’s decision reflects a growing trend among top players — prioritizing personal growth, philosophy, and happiness over prestige alone.
