Manchester United’s top-choice goalkeeper, Andre Onana, might be absent for as many as six games due to his involvement in the African Cup of Nations scheduled for January and February.
Onana, who represents Cameroon, was part of his national team during the 2022 World Cup but had a brief stint, featuring in only one group-stage match, before being sent home due to disagreements with manager Rigobert Song.
In late December, Onana declared his retirement from international duty, but there are indications that he might reconsider ahead of the crucial AFCON qualifier against Burundi next month.
Reports from Foot Azimuts suggest that Onana is set to rejoin the national team in September, thanks to the request by the Cameroonian government. Unless an unforeseen development occurs, he is expected to be included in the upcoming squad.
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Cameroon and Burundi are currently level with four points each in their AFCON qualifying group. They are set to face off on September 12, and a draw in that match would secure their spot in the tournament.
If Onana participates and contributes to their qualification, it would have a direct impact on Man United. The 2023 AFCON is slated to be held in the Ivory Coast from January 13 to February 11.
During this time frame, United are scheduled to play four Premier League matches against Tottenham Hotspur, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Aston Villa. If Cameroon makes it to the AFCON final, Onana could potentially miss all four of these games.
Additionally, there’s a possibility that Onana might be unavailable for the FA Cup fourth-round match on January 27 and the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final scheduled for the week commencing January 22 if United advances in these competitions.
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Losing Onana could be a significant setback for the Red Devils in goal. They are reportedly close to signing Altay Bayindir, who may find himself with a busy schedule covering for Onana’s absence.
