Man United goalkeeper Onana ends international exile for Cameroon's AFCON push

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Man United goalkeeper Onana ends international exile for Cameroon's AFCON push

Festus Chuma 20:30 - 29.08.2023

Manchester United goalkeeper's surprising return ends international retirement, boosting his country's AFCON qualification hopes after World Cup setback.

Manchester United shot-stopper Andre Onana has stunned the football world by ending his self-imposed international exile and accepting an unexpected recall to the Cameroon national team, also known as the Indomitable Lions. 

The 26-year-old goalkeeper, who had previously retired from international duty in protest, has been included in the 24-man squad for Cameroon's upcoming TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Burundi on September 12th.

This surprising turn of events comes just eight months after Onana's retirement from international football, a decision he made following a disagreement with coach Rigobert Song during the World Cup. 

Despite being sent home from the tournament after Cameroon's opening 1-0 loss to Switzerland in Qatar, Onana's dedication to his national team remained unwavering. 

Onana's return to the Cameroon squad is seen as a significant boost for the team's chances of qualifying for the 2023 AFCON finals, which will be held in Ivory Coast next January. 

The Indomitable Lions, under the leadership of Rigobert Song, only need a draw against Burundi on their home turf to secure their place in the upcoming tournament. 

The unexpected twist in Onana's international career has taken the spotlight away from other developments, including notable absentees from the squad such as defenders Nicolas Nkoulou and Jean-Charles Castelletto, as well as midfielder Martin Hongla. 

Despite his acrimonious departure from the World Cup, Onana has since made a high-profile move to Manchester United from his previous club, Ajax. 

The goalkeeper's determination to put his international disappointments behind him and excel on both the club and national fronts is evident. 

Rigobert Song will undoubtedly be hoping that Onana's experience and skill between the posts can play a pivotal role in Cameroon's quest for success in the Ivory Coast tournament.