Ajax goalkeeper Andre Onana is looking to learn from the best in the business as he progresses in his young career and says those at the top have transformed expectations of what it takes to be a world-class keeper.
Onana, 23, drew plaudits from fans around Europe for the role he played in Ajax’s thrilling Champions League run, as well as their capture of the Eredivisie title.
He is one of the new breed of sweeper-keepers, both an excellent shot-stopper and comfortable with the ball at his feet after coming through Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy.
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“The goalkeeping position has developed significantly in Europe in recent years,” Onana told Goal.
“You can see Manuel Neuer, David de Gea, [Marc-Andre] ter Stegen and Ederson.
“They are keepers at the highest level. I have had a chance to talk to them and face them before, and I always try to watch them and try to follow their path to learn from them and develop more in my football career.”
Onana is preparing for the Africa Cup of Nations, having watched from afar as his nation won the cup in 2017.
As reigning champions they go into the tournament among the favourites – but with pressure on them to deliver.
Onana played in a Champions League semi-final less than two months ago, so he is no stranger to a high-pressure environment.
And with more teams than ever competing in this year’s competition, he and his teammates will know there is no excuse for them to be complacent.
“This tournament is going to be very tough,” Onana said. “There are many strong teams.
“For the first time, the tournament is held with 24 teams participating, which means more opportunities and more good players.
“You can see stars like Riyad Mahrez, Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, Naby Keita, Victor Wanyama, and of course from Ajax there is Hakim Ziyech and Noussair Mazraoui, and others.
“We have to show our strength from the beginning and send a message to everyone that we are here to defend our title - with respect to all competitors, of course.
“Cameroon is a great team with a great history, always well represented in the African Championships.
“We must follow the steps of previous generations and provide our country with the best.”
Cameroon start their campaign on June 25 against Guinea-Bissau, before further group games against Ghana and Benin.