Everton and Premier League midfielder Amadou Onana admits he hopes to be playing for ‘one of the biggest clubs’ in the world in five years’ time, speaking to SoFoot amid interest from Arsenal and Chelsea.
It’s fair to say the January transfer window didn’t exactly go to plan for The Toffees; their inability to sign a much-needed number nine a failure which could eventually cost them their place in the top-flight.
But Onana’s reluctance to countenance a mid-season departure from Goodison Park, at least, prevented an already difficult month from becoming a whole lot worse. The Belgian international reportedly rejected the likes of Chelsea and Arsenal, committing his immediate future to Everton with a forceful and expletive-filled message on the club’s official Twitter account.
In an era where loyalty is increasingly seldom-seen, Onana’s commitment to the Everton cause – just a few months after arriving from Lille – was refreshing. There was no chance of him leaping into the lifeboat and jumping from a seemingly sinking ship.
That is not to say, however, that Onana does not have ambitions which extend beyond the blue borders of Stanley Park. The £35 million powerhouse dreams of testing himself at the very highest level. And, unless something changes rather dramatically at Everton, Onana would probably have to leave if he wants to fulfil any Champions League or silverware dreams; his comments a boost to Arsenal or Chelsea if they plan to keep the 21-year-old on the radar.
Amadou Onana a bright spark in Everton’s season
“I see myself having had a lot of life experiences, which will have made me learn a lot about human beings in general, as well as about myself,” Onana tells SoFoot when asked where he sees himself in five years’ time.
“I see myself, God willing, at one of the biggest clubs recognised worldwide.”
At least, if or when the time comes for Onana to depart, Everton should make a sizeable profit on a player who had started just a handful of league games before joining for an eye-watering sum last summer.
Onana, with his blend of physicality and finesse, has been a ray of light in a season full of dark clouds at Goodison Park.
“Really exciting footballer,” former Belgium coach Roberto Martinez says of Onana (Sky Sports).
“Off the ball, he is one of the most impressive young players. The intensity, the way he can press, and then it’s that arrival into the box. Sometimes, he reminds you of a young Patrick Vieira in the way that he can drive with the ball.
“You’re still talking about potential. But what is already there is the leadership and the captain material that he brings to Everton.”
Onana will feature against Arsenal tonight; Everton travelling to the Emirates. He was ‘outstanding‘ the last time the two sides met, Sean Dyche marking his Toffees bow with a dramatic 1-0 win.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
