There is growing tension behind the scenes at Manchester United as the club faces serious decisions about its goalkeeping situation.
Reports suggest that manager Rúben Amorim has voiced strong concerns to the United board over defensive instability, with particular focus on goalkeeper André Onana.
According to multiple sources, Amorim is dissatisfied with the inconsistency Onana has shown, especially during high-pressure moments.
While Onana has produced some commendable performances, his errors in crucial situations have reportedly strained the patience of the coaching staff.
As a result, United are now seriously considering a major change between the posts. Among the options being explored is a move for Aston Villa and Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez.
The 2022 World Cup winner has emerged as a prime candidate to potentially replace Onana if the Cameroonian fails to improve significantly during the remainder of preseason.
Martínez is admired not only for his outstanding shot-stopping abilities and commanding presence in the box but also for his vocal leadership—a quality many believe is currently missing from the United dressing room.
Sources close to Carrington suggest Amorim has made it clear he will not protect reputations or allow underperformance to persist.
His management style is rooted in demanding high standards, both in training and in matches, and he is determined to bring a new mentality to the club.
One insider described Amorim’s philosophy bluntly: “He didn’t come to Old Trafford to protect egos. He wants warriors, not passengers.” This signals a shift away from leniency toward accountability and competition for places.
Although talks between intermediaries and Martínez’s representatives have reportedly begun, no formal offer has been submitted yet.
However, the club’s interest is real, with additional reports indicating that United could be willing to spend as much as £85 million to secure the Argentine’s services.
Other goalkeepers, such as Diogo Costa from Porto and John Victor from Botafogo, are also on United’s radar as potential alternatives, highlighting the seriousness of the club’s search for a more reliable option in goal.
Meanwhile, André Onana has chosen to stay silent publicly about the speculation but is fully aware of the situation.
Those close to the club suggest that Onana knows this preseason period will be pivotal—not only for determining his role as United’s number one but possibly for deciding his long-term future at Old Trafford.
The mood inside the club is changing rapidly. While Amorim was initially expected to bring mainly tactical adjustments, it is now clear that he is initiating a cultural overhaul as well.
No player, regardless of status or past achievements, is guaranteed a starting role under his leadership. With less than a month before the new Premier League season begins, major decisions loom.
United’s squad, especially its goalkeeping department, faces a period of intense scrutiny and possible upheaval. The message is simple: perform at the highest level, or prepare to be replaced.
