Cameroon international André Onana has revealed he is already preparing for life after football, saying he wants to build a successful career in business rather than wait until his playing days come to an end.
The 30-year-old goalkeeper, who is playing for Trabzonspor after returning to the Turkish club on loan from Manchester United, said he believes footballers must plan carefully for the future because of the short nature of their careers.
Speaking in an interview with Sports News Africa, Onana explained that he has begun taking practical steps towards achieving his ambitions away from the pitch, including plans to study business management from next year.
The goalkeeper said he is determined to ensure that his transition from professional football is well planned, stressing the importance of financial responsibility and long-term preparation.
“You have to think about what comes after retirement. Our careers go by quickly, and we need to be aware and manage our finances wisely. Starting next year, I’ll be taking a business management course. I have a real ambition to succeed in the business world,” said the Cameroon international.
Onana also addressed the subject of footballers’ earnings during the interview but made it clear he was not prepared to discuss his personal finances publicly.
“It’s not appropriate to talk about income openly and without restraint. I really don’t want to discuss numbers. These are personal matters.”
Instead of focusing on figures, the Cameroon international said his priority is ensuring he makes sensible decisions that will allow him to succeed once his football career comes to an end.
According to Onana, preparing for retirement is something that should begin while a player is still active, rather than after leaving the game.
He believes the limited length of a professional football career makes it essential for players to think beyond their time on the field and to manage their finances responsibly.
As part of that long-term vision, Onana confirmed that he will begin a business management course next year, describing it as an important step towards fulfilling his ambition of establishing himself in the business world after football.
The goalkeeper also explained that his return to Trabzonspor on loan from Manchester United was influenced in part by this broader approach to planning for the future.
While he continues his playing career with the Turkish club, Onana said he is equally committed to laying the foundations for the next chapter of his professional life.
