Ben Foster backs World Cup winner to end 29-year-old’s troubled stint at Manchester United

Emiliano Martinez backed to replace Andre Onana at Manchester United

Manchester United remain deep in a transitional phase following a turbulent 2024/25 campaign marked by inconsistency and underachievement. Erik ten Hag initially sought to instil his philosophy but fell short of expectations and was eventually replaced by Rúben Amorim, who also struggled to steady the ship. While individuals like Bruno Fernandes offered moments of brilliance, several areas of the squad, particularly the goalkeeper position, left much to be desired. André Onana, brought in with high hopes, has made more headlines for his errors than his heroics between the posts.

As the season concludes and transfer planning intensifies, former United goalkeeper and now pundit Ben Foster has joined the growing chorus calling for decisive action. Speaking on talkSPORT via Youtube, Foster was blunt in his assessment of Onana, stating that the Cameroonian has failed to meet the standards expected at Old Trafford. He urged the club to consider replacing him at the earliest opportunity, especially if a chance arises to sign someone of Emiliano Martínez’s calibre. Though the Argentine may no longer be at his absolute peak, Foster believes he still ranks among the best in the world and could bring the commanding presence United desperately need at the back.

For Foster, persisting with Onana represents an avoidable gamble. The goalkeeper role at a club like United demands reliability, leadership, and mental strength, qualities Martínez has consistently displayed on the biggest stages. As United weigh their options this summer, the pressure is on to make bold decisions that align with the ambition to return to the top.

“It’s a brutal league, the Premier League, and I kind of think [over] the last two seasons that he hasn’t done enough to prove that he is a Manchester United number one. I think he’s got ability, and like so many other Man United players, he’d go elsewhere and probably flourish. I think that’s probably going to be the case with him as well. If the opportunity does come to sign somebody like Emi Martinez, they’ve got to go for it. He’s still one of the best goalkeepers in the world. A lot of people said this season, probably not up to the standard of the previous two years, but still one of the best goalkeepers in the world.”