Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana has opted not to participate in Cameroon’s opening game of the 2023 AFCON against Guinea, as reported by freelance sports journalist Peter Hall for Reuters and Sky Sports.
This decision comes just days before the commencement of AFCON in Cote D’Ivoire.
Initially slated to travel from Manchester to Cote D’Ivoire after Manchester United’s FA Cup match against Wigan Athletic, Onana has chosen to remain with the Red Devils following their 2-0 victory, advancing to the fourth round.
Hall reveals that Onana’s decision is influenced by his commitment to Manchester United, especially amid a challenging period marked by subpar performances with the English Premier League champions.
The goalkeeper has faced criticism for his role in conceding goals, notably in the UEFA Champions League, where Manchester United exited at the group stage.
This latest development further strains Onana’s relationship with the Cameroonian national team, particularly during the tenure of head coach Rigobert Song.
Cameroon, the 2019 AFCON winners, find themselves in Group C alongside Guinea, Gambia, and defending champions Senegal.