Andre Onana took responsibility for the error that saw the new Manchester United goalkeeper concede an embarrassing goal on his Old Trafford debut.
The summer signing from Inter made his home bow in United’s pre-season friendly victory over French side Lens after featuring on the club’s pre-season tour of the USA, but early on was lobbed from the halfway line by Florian Sotoca after Diogo Dalot’s errant pass.
It was a nightmare moment for Onana, who completed a £47.2million transfer to United this summer and has been installed as David de Gea’s long term successor in goal. The 27-year-old is very different in style to the Spaniard as a goalkeeper, comfortable on the ball and playing outside the penalty box – but was caught out on this occassion.
“Like I always say, I am responsible for everything, especially when we concede goals,” Onana told MUTV after the match.
“I’m the big man at the back so I take all the criticism, all the responsibility is on me.”
United fought back from that early setback, with second half goals from Marcus Rashford, Antony and Casemiro securing a 3-1 win for Erik ten Hag’s side. The game also marked the official arrival of new striker Rasmus Hojlund who was unveiled before the fans after his transfer from Atalanta.
Things are now taking shape for United as the Premier League opening weekend draws closer, with Onana and Mason Mount the other summer arrivals so far.
“I’m happy for the win,” the goalkeeper added on the Lens game.
“Of course we can always be better. Some things we have to try to fix. It was a great game for me and for the guys, some important goals and I’m happy for everything.
“Everybody is working hard and I’m very confident and positive everything will be right if we do the right things.”
