Manchester United have been told not to waste their money on signing a replacement for Andre Onana.
That’s the view of club legend Edwin van der Sar, who believes there are bigger problems at Old Trafford to solve rather than bringing in a new goalkeeper.
4
The Red Devils have been linked with an interest in several goalkeepers after a shocking campaign that saw them finish in 15th spot.
Onana has made eight errors leading to goals in the Premier League since joining United in 2023.
In the same period, no other goalkeeper has made as many in the division.
Despite that, Van der Sar has backed the glovesman, instead believing Onana is being made a scapegoat for the underperforming side.
READ MORE MAN UNITED NEWS
Speaking on talkSPORT Drive, the former United stopper explained: “I’ve known him already for a long time.
“He spent four or five years at Ajax. I trained with him and saw him coming.
“He has great strengths. He’s athletic. He has good reaction saves.
“Good with his feet and everything. I’m sure he’s going to get over it.
“Sometimes it’s not easy. Sometimes your performances or the pressure there is.
“But I’ve seen him play for Ajax, for Inter, Champions League finals. I’m sure he’s going to be fine for next season.
4
“I think there are more areas where United should see if you can have a better player, a different player.
“But I don’t think the goalkeeping situation needs to be addressed now.”
Asked if it is unfair to blame Onana, he added: “If you make a mistake or drop one through your legs or it’s a wrong ball that you put out from the back, then you can blame the goalkeeper.
“He’s not been consistent in his performances this year.
“But with the qualities that he has, he should be able to play for Man United for next season.”
Onana has made 101 appearances for the Red Devils since being signed by his former Ajax boss Erik ten Hag in 2023.
4
In those matches, he has kept a total of 24 clean sheets across all competitions.
Meanwhile, Van der Sar enjoyed six successful years at Old Trafford through to his retirement in 2011.
The Dutchman won 11 trophies during that period including four league titles and the Champions League.
As for the overall performance of his old side last term, Van der Sar admitted: “I think it’s an underwhelming season for the club, of course.
“It’s been a few years now that they didn’t reach the level that they’re supposed to reach.
“And also some other clubs have stepped up. Even some smaller clubs who are well organised, difficult to play against.
“So it’s been a very poor season, topping off, losing the Europa League final against Tottenham without having a real fight.”
United’s 15th place finish with 42 points represented their worst league campaign since returning to the top-flight in 1975.