Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana has returned to training following a hamstring injury sustained in the early stages of pre-season.
His comeback comes just in time as the Red Devils prepare to face Arsenal in the opening fixture of the 2025–26 Premier League season on Sunday, August 17, 2025.
Onana’s return to full training was confirmed by both club and media outlets, marking a welcome boost for manager Rúben Amorim.
The Cameroonian has not featured in any of United’s pre-season friendlies, but now stands poised to reclaim his spot between the sticks at Old Trafford. Speaking last week, Onana expressed his optimism and readiness: “I feel good, I feel great. It’s been a few difficult weeks but, yes, hopefully, I will be back for the start of the season. I’m enjoying the training with my guys and we are looking forward.”
This news alleviates early concern, as initial medical estimates had suggested Onana might only return to action around August 23—days after the Arsenal clash. Instead, the goalkeeper’s quicker-than-expected recovery offers him a realistic chance of featuring in the curtain-raiser.
The return of Onana, alongside forward Joshua Zirkzee, illustrates the swelling confidence within United’s squad. Zirkzee also missed the pre-season tour due to injury but has since resumed full training as well.
Meanwhile, Lisandro Martínez continues his rehabilitation from an ACL injury, and Noussair Mazraoui remains sidelined following a knock in the early games of pre-season.
Onana’s limited pre-season was a disappointing subplot for United, occurring amid speculation about his future at the club.
Rumors swirled of a potential move in the transfer window, with United reportedly linked to Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martínez and possibly Paris Saint-Germain’s Gianluigi Donnarumma as alternatives, though those moves never materialized.
His absence during pre-season deprived the squad of his leadership and shot-stopping prowess, and his error rate — three mistakes leading to goals last season — drew criticism despite strong underlying metrics.
For instance, Onana conceded 40 goals, but from shots with an expected goals on target (xGoT) value of 41.3, meaning he effectively denied more than expected.
As United prepare for their Premier League opener, the return of Onana—and Zirkzee—could play a decisive role in shaping the outcome. Arsenal will arrive at Old Trafford on Sunday, August 17, fully aware that United’s reinforcement in the squad might tilt the balance.
Attention will also be on Šeško, Cunha, and Mbeumo, who may appear for the first time in competitive action for United, while the absences of Martínez and Mazraoui still leave questions about defensive stability.