While most footballers use the off-season to rest and recover, Andre Onana had other plans—ones that left fans stunned and amused.
The Manchester United goalkeeper has been spotted doing something totally unexpected during his time off in Cameroon… playing as a striker.
Yes, you read that right.
Onana Switches Roles in Pickup Game
In a clip that made its way to TikTok on Wednesday, the 29-year-old was seen taking on a completely different role on the pitch—leading the line as a centre-forward in a casual game back in his home country.
And believe it or not, he wasn’t half bad.
Using his tall 6’3’’ frame to his advantage, Onana held up the ball with surprising ease, showing off some real strength and smart movement with his back to goal.
He even pulled off some impressive touches that drew fouls and frustrated defenders.
For someone known for diving saves, he looked incredibly comfortable shielding the ball in tight spaces.
Fans React with Jokes and Praise
It didn’t take long for football fans to flood the comments with jokes and hot takes.
One viewer cheekily wrote, “Better ball handling than Hojlund.”
Another fan suggested, “They should send the full team here to train.”
And in typical United banter, someone else added, “United have rubbish strikers so they should play Onana up front.”
The lighthearted video gave fans a rare glimpse into Onana’s versatility—and maybe, just maybe, offered a moment of comic relief after a dismal season.
United’s Struggles and Onana’s Future
Speaking of dismal seasons, Onana faced heavy criticism for his performances between the posts during United’s worst-ever Premier League finish—15th place.
But now, there are growing whispers about a possible move away from Old Trafford altogether.
Rumors have linked Onana with interest from Saudi Pro League clubs as well as Ligue 1 side Monaco, who are reportedly on the hunt for a new number one.
Monaco’s current keepers, Radoslaw Majecki and Philipp Kohn, haven’t exactly cemented their places, and CEO Thiago Scuro has confirmed the club is actively looking for a fresh face in goal.
Other Names on the Goalkeeping Radar
Meanwhile, Chelsea’s Djordje Petrovic is also being looked at as a potential option.
After returning from a loan stint with Strasbourg, he’s not expected to play a major role at Stamford Bridge and could be on the move.
As for Onana, he’s still enjoying his vacation but couldn’t avoid the transfer questions when approached by reporter Stephane Bassalia Ouattara.
When asked—in French—about a possible summer exit, he smiled and replied, “Will I leave? I don’t know, we’ll see!”
What’s Next for Onana and United?
Since joining United from Inter Milan in July 2023, Onana has featured in 72 league matches and managed 18 clean sheets.
But with new manager Ruben Amorim expected to shake things up after a disastrous season, nothing seems off the table.
So, could we see a full-time striker version of Onana next? Probably not.
But if the current forward line continues to struggle, maybe that TikTok video wasn’t entirely a joke after all.