Onana: Man Utd GK Spotted Applying Vaseline on His Gloves During Liverpool Game, Sparks Reactions

Onana: Man Utd GK Spotted Applying Vaseline on His Gloves During Liverpool Game, Sparks Reactions

Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe
updated at April 8, 2024 at 4:43 AM
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  • Man United goalie Andre Onana was impressive against Liverpool
  • He pulled off some important saves as United drew with the Reds
  • But his use of Vaseline confused football fans across the globe

Manchester United goalkeeper, Andre Onana, sparked discussion on social media during his side's Premier League clash against Liverpool on Sunday.

Since his return from the 2023 African Cup of Nations, the Cameroonian goalkeeper has experienced a resurgence, and he played a significant role in keeping his team in contention at halftime.

Andre Onana, Vaseline, Manchester United, goalkeeper, grip, cream, apply, Liverpool, Premier League, Old Trafford.
Andre Onana holding a Vaseline cream during Manchester United's Premier League game against Liverpool. Photo by Ash Donelon.
Source: Getty Images

In a match where he faced a barrage of shots, with his opposite number, Caoimhin Kelleher, on virtual holiday, Onana showcased his skills with some remarkable saves, preventing the Reds from stretching their lead.

Statistics from BR Football revealed that Onana faced a total of 12 shots before halftime, illustrating Liverpool's dominance in the game at Old Trafford.

Onana applies Vaseline to his gloves

While his heroics between the sticks made waves, Onana's unconventional moment caught the attention of social media users.

During the match, the 28-year-old goalkeeper appeared to apply a substance resembling Vaseline to his gloves after deflecting an attempt from Mohamed Salah.

Following the save, the former Inter Milan and Ajax Amsterdam custodian was seen picking up the cream by the goalpost and applying it to his gloves, as SportBIBLE observed.

While the reason behind this action remains speculative, it is possible that Andre used this tactic to enhance his grip, especially considering the rainy conditions at Old Trafford.

How fans reacted

@McLovinnnSports explained:

"They use it as a sealant to keep moisture out of the gloves."

@Conor__S22 added:

"Makes it grip in the wet."

@MidasSZN agreed with the assertions of @McLovinnnSports and @Conor__S22:

"Most top-level keepers use Vaseline on their gloves to improve grip. Obviously, most people in the comments are less than 11."

Another user, @JULESC___, reasoned:

"They use it on new gloves for better grip on the ball."

@GoddowellS wrote:

"Same way other goalkeepers use saliva."

Onana credits resurgence to Van der Sar

In a previous publication, Sports Brief reported that Andre Onana attributes his resurgence to the invaluable support he received from former club legend Edwin van der Sar.

Despite facing initial criticism upon his arrival at Old Trafford from Ajax last summer, the 28-year-old has evolved into a dependable figure for the Red Devils.

Speaking openly about their mentorship, Onana expressed gratitude for Van der Sar's guidance during difficult periods.

Authors
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe photo
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe is a Ligue 1, Bundesliga, and La Liga editor with five-year experience. He previously worked with Sports Corna and 360SportsGH.
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