Amorim warns Onana ahead of Arsenal opener

Manchester United coach Ruben Amorim says no player is guaranteed a starting spot as Andre Onana returns to lead the side against Arsenal.

Amorim warns Onana as United face Arsenal opener

Ruben Amorim has warned that no player holds a guaranteed starting spot for Manchester United, including Andre Onana, who returns from a hamstring injury to face Arsenal in the opening game. Onana endured a difficult two seasons at Old Trafford after his 47.2 million pound move from Inter Milan in 2023 and United even considered selling him for around £35 million if a buyer appeared. The coach stressed that the players must win their places, and he would not name a No 1 ahead of kickoff. Onana's return continues amid questions about whether a new goalkeeper will be pursued this summer, a decision United postponed to focus on other areas. The club have instead invested heavily in attackers, spending around £210 million on Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbuemo, while Turkish keeper Altay Bayindir has not impressed and veteran Tom Heaton extended his contract.

Amorim's comments reflect a broader strategic tension at United between strengthening the spine and chasing a stable goalkeeper. The keeper role is unsettled even as the board backs a bold forward-driven rebuild and some patience with the current crop. The outcome could hinge more on competition and coaching than on a single transfer.

This situation also highlights how a club can balance risk and reward. A heavy bet on attackers signals ambition, but it does not remove the need for reliable backline leadership. If Onana struggles again, the pressure to act could sharpen quickly from fans and investors, shaping how the club is viewed this season.

Highlights

The season will test whether Manchester United stays bold beyond the headline