Andre Onana, who went through a “difficult time” emotionally in the early months of his Manchester United career, feels he has turned the corner off the field.
The Cameroon international signed a £47.2 million ($60 million) contract to join the team in July, but he was under intense criticism after making several costly mistakes.
Onana, 27, claimed that adjusting to life in Britain had been difficult.
“It took me six months or seven months not to play good, just to feel good,” he stated.
“It was a challenging period for me. It was all fresh, so I feel a little better now. I had a hard time feeling at home in this new country for a variety of reasons.
“But I feel fantastic now. Since I am aware of the goalkeeper I am and have accomplished far more than what I just accomplished, I don’t want to discuss my performance.
“So, for me, the most important thing is to be set, to be happy and I will shine.”
In an open conversation, Onana discussed his difficult beginnings in Britain before United’s Sunday matchup with Premier League winners Manchester City.
The goalkeeper believes he is currently on an upward path despite his expensive mistakes during United’s brief Champions League campaign. Since then, his performances have significantly improved.
“I think I had a turning point, but not on the pitch because, like I said, more mental because everything was different,” he stated.
Naturally, I relocated from Amsterdam (Ajax) to Milan for the previous season, but I had no trouble adjusting.
However, I was here for seven or eight months. It was time to get right in and start winning games. I’m hoping we win in the end.”
As soon as Onana arrived at Old Trafford, he was met with encouragement from his teammates.
‘Andre, listen, the quality is there, it’s only a matter of time,’ he added, reminding me that they always had faith in me.
“I am overjoyed, especially with the fans and supporters. Even during my tough times, they were kind to me, and for that, I am grateful. All I can say is thank you to them.
“I believe I’ve moved on from everything. Now that we have to go on, I believe that we will have a wonderful time together.”
