The Move That Raised Eyebrows
Andre Onana transfer to Trabzonspor stunned many fans. Just a year ago, he arrived at Manchester United with great expectations. He was supposed to be the goalkeeper who modernized the Red Devils’ style with his passing ability.
However, his journey at Old Trafford collapsed quickly. Costly errors, pressure from fans, and heavy criticism weakened his position. When news broke about a potential exit, many considered it surprising. Yet, financial details now explain the motivation behind his decision.
Salary Increase Becomes the Key Factor
Reports from Turkey confirmed that Onana’s salary doubled after joining Trabzonspor. This dramatic pay rise immediately silenced those who questioned his decision.
At Manchester United, he earned a solid wage but not near the club’s highest earners. In Turkey, Trabzonspor made him one of their top-paid players. Such an offer proved too tempting to ignore, especially after a difficult year in England.
United’s Gamble Did Not Pay Off
Manchester United signed Onana to replace David de Gea. Erik ten Hag trusted him after their successful partnership at Ajax. The Dutch manager wanted a goalkeeper comfortable with the ball at his feet.
But the Premier League presented harsher challenges. Onana’s distribution often looked risky, while his shot-stopping drew criticism. Mistakes in the Champions League group stage amplified the backlash. Soon, patience ran out among fans and pundits.
Why Trabzonspor Made the Move
For Trabzonspor, signing Onana represented ambition. The Turkish club wants to compete domestically and in Europe. They believe a high-profile goalkeeper can raise standards and attract attention.
By offering a lucrative contract, they secured a player with Champions League experience. For Onana, the deal offered financial security and a chance to reset his career. For Trabzonspor, it was an investment in prestige and performance.
Comparing the Salaries
Exact numbers remain undisclosed, but sources close to the negotiations suggest Onana’s wage package doubled. If he previously earned around £100,000 weekly at United, the new deal in Turkey reportedly exceeds £200,000 per week.
This increase shocked many observers. Trabzonspor rarely offers such huge contracts. Yet, they view Onana as a statement signing to strengthen the club’s profile.
The Role of Pressure in His Exit
Money played a huge role, but pressure also influenced Onana’s decision. At Manchester United, every mistake was magnified. Fans compared him unfavorably with De Gea, who remained popular despite flaws.
In Turkey, expectations differ. While Trabzonspor fans demand success, the spotlight is less intense than at Old Trafford. For Onana, that change could rebuild his confidence. Combined with a doubled salary, the move felt logical.
Fan Reactions to the Transfer
Reactions split among supporters. United fans expressed relief, believing the club cut losses on a risky signing. Others criticized the board for poor planning and another failed transfer.
Meanwhile, Trabzonspor supporters welcomed Onana enthusiastically. They celebrated the arrival of a goalkeeper with international pedigree. Social media posts highlighted optimism about his potential impact in the Turkish Super Lig.
Onana’s Own Motivation
Insiders revealed Onana’s mindset before leaving. He felt undervalued in England, where criticism overshadowed his efforts. The opportunity to earn double while starting fresh appealed strongly.
In interviews, he emphasized ambition and hunger to prove himself again. While he avoided discussing salary, his excitement for a new challenge was clear.
Implications for Manchester United
United’s goalkeeper situation remains unstable. Onana’s departure forces the club to consider alternatives quickly. Whether they rely on current backups or sign another player, questions about recruitment persist.
Fans now fear that the cycle of expensive mistakes in the transfer market continues. Onana’s case becomes another warning about rushed decisions.
Conclusion: A Decision That Makes Sense
At first glance, Onana’s move to Trabzonspor looked shocking. But with his salary doubling, the decision becomes understandable. Financial security, reduced pressure, and a chance to restart all aligned.
For Manchester United, it marked another failed gamble. For Onana, it created an opportunity to rebuild confidence in a new environment. For Trabzonspor, it became a bold statement of intent.
In the end, money spoke loudest. No wonder Onana wanted to leave—doubling his salary made the choice inevitable.
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