The window of opportunity that was given to Erik ten Hag is closing after Manchester United’s latest defeat in the Premier League to Brighton and Hove Albion, which goalkeeper André Onana has asked fans to move past.
The Cameroonian was in goal for United as they lost 2 – 1 on the road to the Seagulls in their second game of the 2024/25 Premier League season. A first-half striker from former Manchester United striker Danny Welbeck and a stoppage-time strike from Brazilian striker João Pedro subjected United to a first defeat of the season. Both strikes came on either side of Amad Diallo’s goal, which also came on either side of two goals scored by United players that were ruled out for offside.
Onana’s statement to fans after the game could be taken out of context given his bold comments before the season began as well as his general demeanour towards his failings and the failings of the team, but the VAR calls that saw United lose two goals soften the impact of his words.
The statements still felt nonchalant, however, especially with United facing a second-straight season without European football if things continue in the manner with which they have started.
What did Onana say?
“We came here to win, unfortunately we didn’t win,” Onana told club media after full-time at the Amex Stadium. “We had a great game, I think we were better than them, we had more chances, we had more possession, we had more control of the game.
“Unfortunately, they disallowed us a goal, but that’s part of football, that’s part of life, we have to move on.”
Onana also assured fans that the squad has the right mentality this seasons and that they will pick themselves back up for the remainder of the season.
“Of course, we’re going to talk with each other, we’re going to sit and analyse the videos and what went wrong, and from there, we will move,” added the 28-year-old. “Big games are coming, big clubs, so the expectation is here, it will be very high.
“It’s [mentality] the key thing now, especially when you are playing for such a big club, and not only me, we have so many players who have that positive mentality and it is really helpful for the club and for the team.
“We move on, we are used to this, so no problem, we have to get ready again for the games that are coming.”
