Andre Onana confirms he will come out of Cameroon retirement but it’s a blow to Man United

Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana has released a lengthy statement saying he will represent Cameroon once again.

It means that the 27-year-old could be absent for the Red Devils in January for the African Cup of Nations.

Onana has represented Cameroon since NovemberGetty

Onana, who has made four appearances for United since his summer move from Inter Milan, has featured 34 times for the Cameroon national team, with his debut coming in 2016.

He was named in their squad for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and featured in their opening defeat against Switzerland.

However, the United star was sent home by manager Rigobert Song due to ‘disciplinary issues’ amid a disagreement with his tactics.

Onana announced his retirement from international football on 23 December but is now set to make a return to the Cameroon squad.

In a statement on Monday, he said: “In the world of football, as in life, decisive moments arise that require crucial choices to be made.

“In recent months, I have been confronted with trials marked by injustice and manipulation. Yet my unshakeable love and attachment to my homeland, Cameroon, remain intact.

“My desire to represent my country has never wavered since my youth, and this aspiration remains an inseparable part of my identity. Nothing and no one can shake this conviction.

“I answer my nation’s call with unshakeable certainty, aware that my return is not only to honour my dream, but also to respond to the expectations and support of Cameroonians, who deserve a national team determined to shine.

He was sent home during the World Cup group stages by boss SongAFP

“In the face of manipulation, lies and abuse of power, I choose to remain true to my ideals, proudly representing a country that deserves our sincere commitment. Now is the time to unite, to work in harmony for our common good: Cameroon.

“I would like to salute the government, which is working hard to build a better Cameroon for all. My thoughts are with the people of Cameroon, to whom I offer my infinite thanks for their support, and whom I look forward to seeing again.

“Time, the infallible judge of all things, will eventually enlighten us and reveal the rightness of our actions. My commitment to Cameroon remains unwavering, and I am determined to play my part in seeing it prosper.”

He is now set to make a return to the frayAFP

Cameroon hosted the last edition of the African Cup of Nations in 2022 but were knocked out by Egypt in the semi-finals.

They are yet to qualify for next year’s tournament though but just need at least a draw against Burundi next Tuesday to do so.

Onana has been named in their squad for the crucial clash, nine months after he called quits with his national side.