January 17, (THEWILL) – Manchester United goalkeeper, Andre Onana, has stated he has much to say following his absence from Cameroon’s Africa Cup of Nations match against Guinea on Monday.
The stopper faced widespread criticism for delaying his arrival at AFCON, after opting to remain with United for their English Premier League draw against Tottenham Hotspur. Onana then jetted off to join Cameroon, but discovered he had been omitted from the squad to face Guinea entirely. Reports claimed Onana was furious with the decision.
Responding to the furore over his late arrival due to flight delays and squad omission, Onana commented: “I have a lot to say but I won’t here…Let people continue to criticise me, I’m used to it, I do what is good for my country.” He emphasised his commitment to Cameroon, stating, “It’s like choosing between my father and my mother, but my country comes first.”
Cameroon manager Rigobert Song previously defended Onana’s absence, explaining: “He arrived at 4am, how do you expect him to play at 5pm?” Yet, Song insisted Onana remains part of the squad.
Onana has declared he is solely focused on representing Cameroon, saying: “I am here to represent my country, my continent. It is a huge honour for me.” He accepts his playing time is the manager’s decision, stating: “We are here to win, no matter who is playing.”
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Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
