Ten Hag defends Onana amidst criticism, says he’s second-best EPL goalkeeper

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has come to the defense of Andre Onana, stating he’s the “second-best goalkeeper in the Premier League.”

Despite recent criticisms of Onana’s errors at goal, Ten Hag pointed to statistical analysis, particularly goals prevented, to support his claim.

According to Opta stats, Onana has prevented 3.6 goals this season, ranking him second in the Premier League in that category, just behind Luton’s Thomas Kaminski with 6.3 prevented goals.

The United manager emphasized, “If you analyze it well, then you see he is the second-best goalkeeper in the Premier League based on stats.”

Onana also boasts a save percentage of 76.1%, putting him second only to Liverpool’s Alisson in the league.

Additionally, he has kept five clean sheets, unmatched by any other goalkeeper.

Despite the favourable statistics, Onana has faced criticism for notable errors leading to goals.

His recent misfortune came in the Champions League against Galatasaray, where he palmed a free-kick into his own net.

However, Ten Hag remains confident in Onana’s abilities, stating that the statistical performance showcases his standing among the best in the league.