Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has voiced opposition to the prospect of André Onana reclaiming a place at Old Trafford, arguing that the club should continue with Senne Lammens as its first-choice goalkeeper.
The debate comes as Cameroon international Onana prepares to return to Manchester United following a loan spell at Turkish side Trabzonspor, where his performances reportedly impressed club officials enough for them to consider extending his stay.
While Manchester United’s current plan is for the 30-year-old goalkeeper to report for pre-season training ahead of the 2026-27 campaign, uncertainty remains over his long-term future.
That uncertainty has now been heightened by comments from Scholes, who believes the club should reward performances rather than reopen competition for the number one jersey.
According to the former England international, Lammens has played a crucial role in improving Manchester United’s defensive stability during the season and deserves to remain first choice.
Reacting to reports linking Onana with a return to the squad, Scholes said:
“I honestly don’t understand it.
“When you look at what Senne Lammens has done this season, he has completely transformed Manchester United’s defence.
“He’s brought confidence, composure and consistency.The defenders trust him, the supporters trust him and the team looks far more secure with him in goal.
“So when people talk about Onana coming back and competing for the number one spot, I don’t see the logic.”
His comments reflect a growing discussion around Manchester United’s goalkeeping future as the club prepares for another campaign.
For African football followers, the situation is particularly significant because Onana remains one of the continent’s most high-profile goalkeepers.
The Cameroonian has spent the last season away from Manchester United on loan at Trabzonspor, where he reportedly did enough to convince the Turkish club that he could continue to play a major role in their plans.
Trabzonspor are said to be keen on extending the relationship and are preparing to open discussions with Manchester United regarding another loan arrangement.
The Turkish side’s interest suggests that Onana remains highly valued despite the uncertainty surrounding his position at Old Trafford.
Manchester United, however, appear determined to bring the goalkeeper back for pre-season under manager Michael Carrick before making a final decision on his future.
Whether that return ultimately leads to a renewed opportunity in Manchester or another spell in Turkey remains unclear.
