Manchester United and Cameroon’s Andre Onana Nominated for CAF Goalkeeper of the Year

By Boris Esono Nwenfor

BUEA, Cameroon — André Onana, the first-choice goalkeeper for Manchester United and the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon, is amongst five nominees for the coveted CAF Goalkeeper of the Year award at the 2024 CAF Awards. The recognition highlights Onana’s outstanding performances over the past year, both in the Premier League and on the international stage.

The nomination celebrates a stellar year for the 28-year-old shot-stopper, who has become a key figure in Manchester United’s squad since joining from Inter Milan. Known for his incredible reflexes, composure, and ball distribution, Onana has delivered crucial performances for the English giants, helping them compete at the highest level in domestic and European football.

Onana’s influence has extended beyond club football. As Cameroon’s number one, he played a pivotal role in the Indomitable Lions’ unbeaten run during the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. His critical saves, particularly in tight encounters against Zimbabwe and Namibia, ensured Cameroon finished top of Group J and secured their spot in the upcoming tournament.

The goalkeeper also marked his return to international football with renewed determination after a brief hiatus, stabilizing Cameroon’s backline and reinforcing his reputation as one of Africa’s elite talents.
Onana will contend for the award against some of the continent’s finest, including Yahia Fofana (Cote d’Ivoire / Angers SCO), Mostafa Shobeir (Egypt / Al Ahly), Stanley Nwabali (Nigeria / Chippa United) and Ronwen Williams (South Africa / Mamelodi Sundowns).

The ceremony promises to be a thrilling occasion, and all eyes will be on Onana as he aims to bring the prestigious accolade home to Cameroon and Manchester United. Should he claim the title, Onana would join the ranks of African goalkeeping legends, further solidifying his legacy.

The 2024 edition of the CAF Awards is set to take place in Marrakech, Morocco on 16 December 2024. Simon Adingra (Cote d’Ivoire / Brighton & Hove Albion), Serhou Guirassy (Guinea / Borussia Dortmund), Achraf Hakimi (Morocco / Paris Saint-Germain), Ademola Lookman (Nigeria / Atalanta) Ronwen Williams (South Africa / Mamelodi Sundowns) have all been lined up for CAF Awards 2024 Player of the Year Top Prize.

Other categories announced today include Goalkeeper of the Year, Interclub Player of the Year, Coach of the Year, Young Player of the Year, Club of the Year, and National Team of the Year.
The glittering ceremony designed to celebrate African football excellence recognizes exceptional performances in both club and national competitions, culminating in the prestigious titles of CAF African Player of the Year in both the men’s and women’s categories.