On weekends, when millions of Premier League fans are waiting for spectacular performances on the football pitch, Manchester United’s No. 1 goalkeeper Andre Onana is looking for a new challenge in a completely different sport – basketball.
Hailing from Cameroon, Onana has been trained in football skills since he was very young. But after joining Barcelona’s La Masia academy and then moving to Ajax, he has been completely focused on becoming a top goalkeeper.
However, on weekends, Onana often sneaks out of Manchester United’s training ground to join friendly basketball matches with friends. He admits that this is a way to relieve pressure and find new joy.
“Basketball has always been a passion of mine since I was a child. When I practice and play with my friends on the weekends, I feel like I am free from the pressure and responsibility of being a professional goalkeeper. That is how I find balance and relaxation in my life,” Onana shared.
Onana’s performances on the basketball court quickly attracted the attention of fans. Many people did not believe that a professional goalkeeper like him could show such impressive skills in a completely different sport.
However, Onana affirmed that playing basketball not only helps him relieve stress but also contributes to improving skills such as situational judgment, quick reflexes, and mobility. These skills are also essential for a goalkeeper competing at a high level like him.
“Basketball requires a lot of quick reactions, awareness, and movement. I believe that practicing and playing basketball will help me become a better goalkeeper. It not only provides relief but also helps me improve important skills,” Onana said.
With his impressive performance on the basketball court and his commitment to improving his performance, Andre Onana is receiving support from many Manchester United fans. They hope that Onana’s dedication and relentless efforts will help him shine even brighter for the “Red Devils” in the new season.