Andre Onana could earn a big pay rise for Manchester United as he brings financial benefits to the team and is likely to return to the Champions League despite being sidelined all season
Manchester United were delighted to let Andre Onana go in the summer, but now have to make an immediate decision about his future (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
With Manchester United charging towards the Champions League, Andre Onana could receive a pay rise despite being sidelined all year, potentially making it more difficult for him to get his job off in the summer.
The Red Devils have been without their Cameroonian goalkeeper for most of the season after he made a surprise loan move to Trabzonspor in Turkey. There was no obligation or option to make the move permanent, which means he will return to Old Trafford in July.
Onana signed Erik ten Hag in 2023, but was part of a team-wide pay cut following United’s failure to qualify for Europe in 2025-26. This meant players were forced to take a 25% pay cut to make up for the lack of income in Europe.
However, United sit third in the table and a return to the Champions League would mean players’ salaries would return to their previous levels. The Sun reports that United officials fear the salary increase will make it more difficult to get Onana off the books.
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However, the player himself previously played in the Champions League final with Inter Milan and is determined to remain in Manchester and fight for his place.
United signed Senne Lamence from Royal Antwerp in the summer, and although he was a relative unknown, he has since established himself as United’s No.1. The Belgian impressed and now commands the jersey.
If Onana returns, United may have to carry a very expensive goalkeeper as back-up. If they want to send him out on loan again, they may have to pay a portion of his salary to take him off the books. They currently have the luxury of Trabzonspor paying his full salary.
Andre Onana is currently on loan at Trabzonspor (Image: Gerrit van Keulen/Getty Images)
United were keen to move Onana this season after two error-filled years that saw him eventually let go for a short period by former manager Ruben Amorim. After replacing David de Gea, it quickly became clear that although he was capable of playing, he was not that great of a shot-stopper.
Regarding his departure, Amorim said: “Sometimes it’s difficult to point out what went wrong. Performances, moments, unlucky moments were hard on him. I wish Andre all the best. He was a really hard worker and was good at helping the players. But sometimes you need a change of environment.”
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