Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana has come out of retirement to join up with Cameroon’s national team for their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Burundi.
The 27-year-old was recalled to the national team last month, having previously announced his retirement from international football last December after a disagreement with head coach Rigobert Song over tactics.
Although Onana had some doubts over returning he has ultimately decided to do so.
He said: “In the world of football, as in life, decisive moments arise that require crucial choices to be made. In recent months, I have been confronted with trials marked by injustice and manipulation. Yet my unshakeable love and attachment to my homeland, Cameroon, remain intact.
“My desire to represent my country has never wavered since my youth, and this aspiration remains an inseparable part of my identity. Nothing and no one can shake this conviction. I answer my nation’s call with unshakeable certainty, aware that my return is not only to honour my dream, but also to respond to the expectations and support of Cameroonians, who deserve a national team determined to shine.
“In the face of manipulation, lies and abuse of power, I choose to remain true to my ideals, proudly representing a country that deserves our sincere commitment. Now is the time to unite, to work in harmony for our common good: Cameroon.
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— Andre Onana (@AndreyOnana) September 4, 2023
“I would like to salute the government, which is working hard to build a better Cameroon for all.
“My thoughts are with the people of Cameroon, to whom I offer my infinite thanks for their support, and whom I look forward to seeing again.
“Time, the infallible judge of all things, will eventually enlighten us and reveal the rightness of our actions. My commitment to Cameroon remains unwavering, and I am determined to play my part in seeing it prosper.”
Onana played the opening game of the 2022 World Cup against Switzerland but has not played for his country since.
He was left out of the second match of the tournament in Qatar against Serbia before he eventually flew home, not playing an active role in the remainder of their fixtures.
Onana made his senior international debut in 2016. He has gained 34 caps and won the Cameroonian footballer of the year award in 2018.
He joined Manchester United in the summer transfer window from Inter Milan in a deal worth €51million (£43.9m, $57.4m) plus €4m in add-ons.
Cameroon play Burundi on September 12, with AFCON set to take place in Ivory Coast in January, as the 2023 edition was postponed for a year.
If Cameroon successfully qualify Onana could miss up to four of United’s Premier League fixtures between January and February next year.
GO DEEPER
Why Cameroon sent Andre Onana home from the World Cup
(Photo: Stu Forster/Getty Images)
