December 22nd 2023.
Erik ten Hag has declared that he is not worried about the potential absence of Andre Onana in January and February due to the Africa Cup of Nations. The Manchester United goalkeeper has been a mainstay in the team this season, but is likely to be called up for the competition.
If he is chosen, the 27-year-old could miss up to six games, including the highly anticipated clashes with Tottenham and Aston Villa. Onana's £47 million move from Inter Milan, however, has not gone according to plan. He has made a number of mistakes, particularly in the Champions League, resulting in United's shocking elimination from the tournament.
This has raised doubts about the capability of his number two, Altay Bayindir, who is yet to make his debut since joining from Fenerbahce. Tom Heaton is also available, but while his experience is invaluable, the 37-year-old's best days may be behind him.
In his pre-match press conference before the trip to West Ham, Ten Hag said, "When he [Onana] goes there [AFCON], we have a strong group of keepers with Bayindir and Tom Heaton so we are comfortable. Of course, we hope Andre is available as much as possible, but if not we have two good keepers who can replace him."
It is uncertain whether Onana will actually take part in the Africa Cup of Nations, due to a reported fallout with Cameroon boss Rigobert Song at the 2022 World Cup. There are rumors that he does not want to join the tournament for fear of losing his place in United's starting XI.
Ten Hag has revealed that the club and Onana are still in discussions, adding, "If they call him up, you know the regulations." Other United players who could also go to AFCON include Sofyan Amrabat, Amad Diallo and Hannibal Mejbri.
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