Man Utd's Andre Onana slammed by ex-Arsenal star over AFCON 'disrespect'

18 January 2024 , 01:30

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Andre Onana delayed his AFCON arrival (Image: Getty Images)

Emmanuel Adebayor says Andre Onana “disrespected” Cameroon with his delayed African Cup of Nations link-up.

The Manchester United goalkeeper was named in his nation’s squad for the latest iteration of the tournament. He delayed his link-up with the team to play in the Red Devils’ recent draw with Tottenham in the Premier League.

That appeared to cost Rigobert Song’s side after they kicked off their AFCON with a shock 1-1 draw with ten-man Guinea. Former Arsenal and Manchester City star Adebayor has been critical of Onana for his controversial call.

Speaking to Sport News Africa, via AllezLesLions, the ex-striker said: "He [Onana] did not respect Cameroon. I was a player like him, and even being the most important player in my selection, I never acted in this way [arriving on the day of the match].

“The fact that this situation is happening shows that there is a problem, perhaps even within the federation. He risks losing big, because he has alienated the Cameroonian supporters, as well as many African supporters and undoubtedly certain members of the team."

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Onana has already attempted to defend his stance. He has reiterated his commitment to Cameroon as he puts his Red Devils commitments on pause.

Speaking on Monday night, the former Ajax and Inter Milan star said: “I have a lot to say but I will not say it here because we are in competition. Let me continue to be criticised, I am used to it.

Andre Onana stayed in the UK to play in Man United's clash with Tottenham (Getty Images)

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“I do what is good for my country. It’s like choosing between my father and my mother, but my country comes first; that’s why I’m here. We are together. We are here to win [the tournament].”

Elsewhere, Cameroon boss Song has also leapt to the defence of his goalkeeper. He explained exactly why he was not named in the side against Guinea.

"We all knew that [Onana wouldn't play]," Song said. "We need to stick to our logic. He arrived at 4am, how do you expect him to play? He's part of the group. He joined us at 4am so he's part of the squad. There's the rest of the competition, and I'm sticking with my full squad."

Song now has a decision to make over Onana’s inclusion. Cameroon’s second group game sees them come up against Senegal, while they then round off their group stage against Gambia. Should Cameroon fail to progress, then Onana could potentially return for Man United’s next game - a fourth round FA Cup clash against Newport County away from home.

Daniel Orme