Andre Onana opens up on refusing Man United’s no. 1 shirt

Andre Onana, the Cameroonian goalkeeper, has divulged the heartfelt reason for his decision to refuse the prestigious number one shirt, which was left vacant by the departure of David de Gea from the Premier League giants this summer.

Despite becoming the third-most expensive goalkeeper in the world following his remarkable £47 million move from Inter Milan, Onana opted for a less conventional choice – the No.24 shirt.

Upon his highly anticipated arrival at Old Trafford, fans and pundits alike expected Onana to swiftly take up the iconic No.1 shirt, which has been historically associated with the club’s top goalkeepers. However, the 25-year-old had a deeply personal reason for sticking with the No.24 jersey, a number that holds immense significance in his life.

In a recent interview with MUTV, the new Manchester United shot-stopper revealed that his shirt choice is a tribute to his date of birth – the second of April, represented numerically as 2/4. The number 24 holds a special place in Onana’s heart, having been a part of his journey in the world of football throughout his career.

Explaining his choice, Onana said, “I just like that number, and it’s my birthday, my date of birth. So for me, it’s great, and I like this shirt. With this number, we have done a lot, and I hope this will continue.”

The decision to wear the No.24 shirt not only resonates with his personal milestones but also carries a significant history for the talented goalkeeper.

During his successful tenure at Ajax, where he honed his skills and gained recognition as a top-class shot-stopper, Onana proudly sported the No.24 jersey. The number became a symbol of his dedication, talent, and commitment to excellence on the pitch.

While some fans may have anticipated a more traditional choice, the significance behind Onana’s jersey selection adds a unique touch to his new chapter with Manchester United.

As he embarks on this exciting journey at one of the world’s most prestigious football clubs, the Cameroonian international aims to continue his success story, now donning the No.24 shirt that has accompanied him through pivotal moments in his career.

Manchester United supporters, in particular, will be eager to witness Onana’s goalkeeping prowess in action and hope that the No.24 jersey will be graced with remarkable saves and memorable performances in the seasons to come.

As the Premier League season draws near, all eyes will be on the determined goalkeeper, who seeks to cement his place as a worthy successor to the legendary No.1 shirt, while also honoring the deeply personal significance of the No.24 jersey on his extraordinary football journey.