Andre Onana has come under fresh criticism following Manchester United’s FA Cup exit, with former club defender Paul Parker labeling him “useless” and urging the club to find a new goalkeeper. Parker’s comments come after United’s penalty shootout loss to Fulham, where Onana failed to save a single spot-kick, allowing the visitors to advance with a 4-3 win.
Despite Bruno Fernandes forcing extra time with a crucial equalizer, United couldn’t capitalize, with both Victor Lindelof and Joshua Zirkzee missing from the spot. Meanwhile, Onana, who was signed for £47 million to replace David de Gea, has faced growing scrutiny for his performances this season.
Parker didn’t hold back in his assessment, questioning why United let De Gea leave for free in 2023. He criticized the club’s handling of the Spaniard’s departure and pointed out that Onana’s performances only made the decision look worse. “It was disgraceful how they parted with him after being Player of the Year three times,” Parker told Danish outlet SpilXperten.
Beyond his shot-stopping ability, Parker also took issue with Onana’s mentality, claiming he lacks the commanding presence of past United goalkeepers. “He doesn’t seem to care when United concedes. You never see him shouting or organizing his defense like De Gea or Schmeichel did. For them, keeping a clean sheet was everything.”
With new manager Ruben Amorim set to make big decisions in the summer, Parker believes United should consider replacing Onana. Surprisingly, he suggested Leicester City’s Mads Hermansen, despite the Danish keeper enduring a tough season with the Foxes. The 24-year-old has conceded 45 goals in 21 Premier League appearances and has managed just one clean sheet all season.
Hermansen, a key player in Leicester’s Championship-winning campaign last year, has struggled at the top level, posting one of the worst save percentages (62.8%) in the league. His team’s poor defensive record has left them battling relegation, raising doubts about whether he’s an upgrade over Onana.
However, Parker remains convinced Hermansen could be a smart long-term signing for United. “Right now, I’d give [Altay] Bayindir a chance, but long-term, I think Hermansen has everything – great shot-stopping, strong mentality, and good footwork,” Parker said. “As a center-back, you’d feel safe with him behind you because of his presence.”
That said, Parker admitted United have bigger priorities in the transfer market, with several other positions needing reinforcements. As Onana prepares for a crucial test against Arsenal on Sunday, his performances will remain under intense scrutiny, while Hermansen and Leicester face Chelsea in their battle for Premier League survival.