Manchester United's goalkeeper Andre Onana has urged fans to brace themselves for an even more adventurous approach from Erik ten Hag's team next season.
Onana, who joined the club from Inter Milan last summer to replace former No. 1 David de Gea, has promised a season of increased risk-taking as he continues to adjust to the demands of Premier League football.
“It’s what you’re going to see this season because I will take a lot of risks,” Onana said.
“I can tell you in advance already. Be prepared because it’s going to be this season, trust me. I will enjoy it even more when this season starts.
“The best teams in the world take risks. Building from the back, recognise things, situations, when the opponent jumps one against one, or when they press with three or with four, recognise we dominate the pressing if it’s a No. 9 or the No. 11.
“For me, it’s important to recognise those kinds of things and make the best decision for the team. I will take a lot of responsibility and I think my back is huge to carry it all, no? I think it’s going to be nice this season.”
The 28-year-old goalkeeper’s first season with United was a rollercoaster, marked by both spectacular saves and notable errors, particularly in the Champions League where the team’s campaign ended prematurely in the group stages.
Despite the ups and downs, Onana is determined to deliver a more consistent performance in the upcoming season, accepting that criticism may come his way as part of the process.
“Being a player for Manchester United, when you don’t win, it’s fair to receive criticism because at the end of the day, it’s part of the job,” he said.
“We are here for it and me coming here as the best goalkeeper in the world, it’s normal they were tough on me because they expect a lot from me but at the same time they also give me a lot of love.
“You just have to balance that and critics sometimes are good because you have to look back at what you did that was not good, so for me, I take it positively.”
In a bid to support Onana and enhance the team’s ability to build from the back, United have made a significant change in their backroom staff.
Jelle ten Rouwelaar, formerly of Ajax, has been appointed as the new goalkeeper coach, taking over from Richard Hartis.
Ten Rouwelaar’s arrival is part of a broader overhaul of the coaching staff under ten Hag, aimed at refining United’s style of play and strengthening their defensive capabilities.
Andre Onana has warned Man United fans to 'be prepared' for a season of high risk-taking 👀😬
— SPORTbible (@sportbible) August 6, 2024
🗣️ “It’s what you’re going to see because I will take a lot of risks. I can tell you in advance already! Be prepared, because it’s going to be this season, trust me!” pic.twitter.com/1kW1g2Hjh2
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