Onana wins debut plaudits despite Trabzonspor defeat

Andre Onana was named man of the match on his Trabzonspor debut despite a 1-0 defeat to Fenerbahce, with Turkish media praising his leadership and ability on the ball after he lost his place at Manchester United.

Onana joined the Super Lig side on a season-long loan ahead of the transfer deadline after losing his place as United’s No.1 following a run of errors. He made his first appearance for his new club on Sunday, with Trabzonspor visiting a Fenerbahce side that also fielded a familiar face in goal as former Manchester City stopper Ederson made his debut.

The game turned on Okay Yokuslu’s 20th-minute red card, leaving Trabzonspor to play the majority of the match a man light. Onana parried an effort from former United midfielder Fred before the break, and the ball was squared to Youssef En-Nesyri, who converted the only goal of the game.

Praise from Turkish media despite the loss

Despite the result, Onana’s performance was widely praised. 61saat.com reported that he impressed in his first appearance and received positive reviews from fans, highlighting his footwork and willingness to join the passing game from deep. The report also noted that he went as far as midfield to take a free-kick.

He was also praised for calming Paul Onuachu after the striker was booked for dissent following a disallowed goal. Haberler named him player of the match with a rating of 8.7, crediting him with keeping Trabzonspor in the contest after they went down to 10 men and praising his leadership and experience.

What this means for United’s goalkeeping picture

The reviews stand in contrast to many of Onana’s displays under Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim. Amorim only selected him for the Carabao Cup defeat at Grimsby Town this season, while Altay Bayindir was preferred for Premier League action.

Despite the arrival of Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp, Bayindir kept his place for the derby defeat at City.

A fresh start away from Old Trafford scrutiny

For Onana, the loan offers an opportunity to rebuild after two turbulent years in Manchester, where his performances were often marked by costly individual errors. His man-of-the-match display on his first outing, even in defeat, gave him a positive start at Trabzonspor.

Amorim must now decide whether to stick with Bayindir or hand Lammens his debut against Chelsea at Old Trafford on Saturday.