Manchester United loanee Andre Onana’s displays since his switch to Trabzonspor in September have been branded as ‘outstanding’. The goalkeeper was permitted to depart Old Trafford following Senne Lammens’ arrival in the summer window. Following a setback against Fenerbahce on his Trabzonspor debut, Onana has remained unbeaten since.
His team are presently enjoying a four-match winning streak which has propelled them to second place in the standings before Saturday’s journey to table-toppers Galatasaray. Trabzonspor sports correspondent Hasan Tuncel is very impressed with Onana’s stint at the Turkish outfit thus far.
“In one word: outstanding,” Tuncel told the Manchester Evening News when quizzed on how Onana had performed during his initial months at the club.
“Onana’s debut came in the match against Fenerbahce. Trabzonspor lost 1–0, but the story of that game was far deeper than the scoreline.
“A Trabzonspor goal was controversially disallowed, creating real tension on the pitch. During that chaos, Onana’s leadership stood out – he calmed his teammates, used his experience, and pulled off some remarkable saves.
“From that moment on, not just the fans in Turkey but everyone watching internationally saw that he is still a top-level goalkeeper. He has maintained the same standard in the following matches.
“His performance against Kayserispor was phenomenal – he practically saved every shot on target. In the match against Eyupspor, his two crucial saves were instrumental in keeping Trabzonspor’s title hopes alive.”
Tuncel added that Onana has been mentoring young players behind the scenes, showing how the United loanee has taken a leading role within the dressing room.
“So far, he’s been flawless,” added Tuncel. “Beyond his goalkeeping, he’s become a leader in the dressing room.
“He personally mentors three young goalkeepers – Onuralp Cevikkan, Ahmet Dogan Yildirim, and Erolcan Colak – guiding them during and after training sessions. This mentorship has earned him great respect within the club.”
Onana seems to have found the perfect environment at Trabzonspor, but a permanent move appears unlikely.
“The club is extremely happy with his performances, but given the transfer fee Manchester United paid for him, a permanent deal looks financially difficult at the moment,” Tuncel confessed.
“However, if Onana continues at this level and United lower their asking price, I have no doubt Trabzonspor would be interested in making a formal move.
“For now, the focus is on having Onana mentor the club’s young goalkeepers and help them grow. But if conditions become favourable, Trabzonspor would definitely love to keep him permanently.”
