Andre Onana confirms decision that could see him miss up to seven Man Utd matches next year

Andre Onana has confirmed he will come out of international retirement to represent Cameroon.

The Manchester United goalkeeper has not played for his country since the World Cup last year, with Onana flying home early from Qatar after a dispute with manager Rigobert Song. The goalkeeper announced in December he was retired from international football, but was last week selected for his country’s upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Burundi.

There was uncertainty whether Onana would choose to meet up with the squad, and Erik ten Hag dodged questions on the subject during Friday’s press conference. But in a statement released on Monday, Onana revealed he would return to the Cameroon fold.

“In the world of football, as in life, decisive moments arise that require crucial choices to be made,” he said via a message posted on social media. “In recent months, I have been confronted with trials marked by injustice and manipulation. Yet my unshakeable love and attachment to my homeland, Cameroon, remain intact.

 “My desire to represent my country has never wavered since my youth, and this aspiration remains an inseparable part of my identity. Nothing and no one can shake this conviction. I answer my nation’s call with unshakeable certainty, aware that my return is not only to honour my dream, but also to respond to the expectations and support of Cameroonians, who deserve a national team determined to shine.

“In the face of manipulation, lies and abuse of power, I choose to remain true to my ideals, proudly representing a country that deserves our sincere commitment. Now is the time to unite, to work in harmony for our common good: Cameroon. I would like to salute the government, which is working hard to build a better Cameroon for all.

“My thoughts are with the people of Cameroon, to whom I offer my infinite thanks for their support, and whom I look forward to seeing again. Time, the infallible judge of all things, will eventually enlighten us and reveal the rightness of our actions. My commitment to Cameroon remains unwavering, and I am determined to play my part in seeing it prosper.”

The decision means Onana could play at the Africa Cup of Nations in January and February next year, which might see him miss up to four Premier League matches, against Tottenham Hotspur, Wolverhampton Wanderers, West Ham United and Aston Villa. The FA Cup fourth round and the Carabao Cup semi-final double header also take place over that period.