Manchester United recently acquired goalkeeper Andre Onana that sparked discussions and comparisons with the club’s former short-stopper, David De Gea, know the stats vs the two
While both players have their unique attributes, their performances in the early stages of the season have provided insights into their strengths and weaknesses.
Andre Onana vs David De Gea stats, cleansheets, goals conceded and save percentage record
In the first four games of the season, De Gea demonstrated his class by conceding just two goals and securing two clean sheets. His save percentage stood at an impressive 83%, showcasing his shot-stopping abilities.
On the other hand, Onana faced a tougher challenge, conceding seven goals with only one clean sheet and a save ratio of 68%. It is clear that De Gea’s performance was exceptional, while Onana is still adjusting to the Premier League’s demands.
Andre Onana's touch map vs David de Gea's touch map. pic.twitter.com/pRun9ARxDv
— KM⚽ (@ElijahKyama_) September 6, 2023
The variance in their performances can partially be attributed to Manchester United’s evolving playing style under coach Erik ten Hag. Having worked with Onana at Ajax, Ten Hag likely saw potential in the Cameroonian’s ability to play out from the back.
Onana’s total passes in the first four matches were substantially higher than De Gea’s, with 104 passes compared to De Gea’s 66. This reveals Onana’s comfort with the ball at his feet and his role in initiating attacks from deep positions. However, Onana’s decision-making in certain game situations still raises questions, as seen in the incident against Wolves.
In his debut league match, Onana’s ill-timed challenge on a Wolves player almost cost Manchester United three points. While VAR spared him from conceding a penalty, it was clear that the goalkeeper was still adapting.
Onana played three more matches, conceding in each of them and securing only one victory. In contrast, De Gea’s last four games saw him keep two clean sheets and concede only twice. De Gea clinched the Premier League Golden Glove with an impressive 17 clean sheets, surpassing his closest competitors.
Although Onana finished the season with a slightly higher save percentage at 73.5%, De Gea saved a penalty, while Onana faced two without making a save. Additionally, De Gea matched Onana’s 100% short pass completion rate.
However, the real distinction lies in their long-distance passing abilities. Onana completed over 10% more long passes than De Gea, emphasizing his proficiency in launching attacks from deep positions. This aspect of Onana’s game aligns with Manchester United’s evolving playing style under Erik ten Hag.
Andre Onana 🇨🇲 vs. David de Gea 🇪🇸 passing stats in 2022/23 (per 90 mins):
Passes Attempted
🇨🇲 43
🇪🇸 32Pass Completion Rate
🇨🇲 81%
🇪🇸 71%Long Pass Completion Rate
🇨🇲 55%
🇪🇸 45%Big difference. 😳 pic.twitter.com/vldcukDHMT
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Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes believes in Onana’s potential and the mental strength required to succeed at the club. Fernandes recently stated, “If someone has picked Andre to come in and be the goalkeeper of Manchester United, then he has to be a big personality.” This endorsement highlights the faith the team has in Onana’s abilities.