Exclusive: Cameroon keeper Andre Onana’s loan a chance to reset – Ertugral

A Turkish coach has given context of Andre Onana’s loan switch from Manchester United to Trabzonspor FC, describing it as a chance to ‘reset’.

Muhsin Ertugral told Pan-Africa Football that the Cameroonian star’s departure from the Premier League team to their Turkish Super League counterparts could turn out to be a tactical career switch.

The former Kaizer Chiefs mentor, therefore, said Onana’s temporary exit from Old Trafford should not be viewed as a career downgrade.

“In my opinion, his move to Trabzonspor shouldn’t be seen as an upgrade or downgrade,” Ertugral told Pan-Africa Football.

“At the stage of his career, for me it’s about context, and responsibility. A loan to Trabzonspor, can offer him exactly the chance to reset, play consistently, and step away from the criticism he had recently.”

Just how good is the Turkish league for Onan?

The 65-year-old has massive playing and coaching experience in Turkey and Africa. The ex-Ajax Cape Town boss served as an assistant coach Trabzonspor between 1996 and 1987, hence he fully understands the football standards in the Turkish league that attracts top coaches such as Jose Mourinho.

While it is a fact that the Premier League is considered the best football in the world, Ertugral insisted that the Turkish Super League is not inferior either.

“The Turkish league, obviously, doesn’t have the global prestige as the Premier League, but it has for sure intensity, passionate fans especially in Trabzonspor where I worked as well and know the demand for resilience is very real,” the UEFA Pro-Licence holder added.

“I think for him, that environment can be both a test and a platform. If he uses it well to regain confidence, and his decision-making, most importantly, the lead from the back, his move could prove his quality like back in the days at Ajax [Amsterdam]. Sometimes a step sideways is what brings you a step forward. I know the coaches very well; they will give him all the confidence he needs.”

Onana, 29, travelled to Turkey after completing international duty with Cameroon in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The Cameroonian’s exit from United

The keeper joined United from Inter Milan in 2023 for an initial €51m (£43.8m), plus potential add-ons of €4m (£3.4m). His current contract at Old Trafford runs until 30 June 2028, with the option of a one-year extension.

Since his arrival, Onana has made 102 appearances for United across all competitions, conceding 150 goals and keeping 24 clean sheets. He also achieved the FA Cup with Manchester United.

The former Inter Milan shot-stopper featured in one competitive game this Premier League season.

In that single appearance, Onana came under scrutiny after Amorim’s side lost 12-11 on post-match penalties to lower league side Grimsby Town days ago. The game had ended two-all in regulation time.

Onana was eventually relegated back to the bench in last weekend’s Premier League game against Burnley FC. United won 3-2 before going into the international break.

Onana’s place in the United squad was in danger after Amorim signed Belgian custodian Senne Lammens from Antwerp in addition to the current first-choice Altay Bayindir.

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