Super Eagles midfielder Frank Onyeka admitted he would love to play for Manchester United while speaking to a fan during the ongoing Africa cup of nations in Morocco, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The 28-year-old Brentford midfielder made the comment in a brief fan interview posted on Tiktok with Manchester United supporter Hussain Vorajee, who approached him during the tournament.
Asked which club he plays for, Onyeka replied, “Brentford,” before answering directly when questioned about a potential move to Old Trafford, saying, “Yes of course, I want to play for Manchester United.”
The exchange quickly gained traction online and sparked criticism from supporters, with several accusing the Nigeria international of being unprofessional while still under contract with a Premier League club.
Brentford fan, Tom P (@TomPurchase6), who reshared the video on X, said, “Can we release O nyeka please?”
One user, @simplykofi22, wrote under @hussainvorajee original video, “Very unprofessional from him,” while @blaq905 suggested, “Brentford can sanction him for this reply.”
Another fan, @jugaman1, said, “That wasn’t a professional reply, bloggers can get it twisted. A better answer should have been you never know.”
Others echoed similar sentiments, questioning the timing and tone of Onyeka’s response.
“From a professional player still contracted to a club? No, that that isn’t a nice response, you can do better, Onyeka,” @zaydordee posted, while @akinalao simply described the comment as “Very unprofessional.”
Despite the backlash, Onyeka remains an important figure for both club and country. He is currently enjoying one of the strongest periods of his career and has been a regular starter for Nigeria at the tournament, starting in three games so far and averaging 77 minutes per game.
His contributions have been more defensive than attacking, with solid passing accuracy, consistent ball recoveries and a strong presence in midfield duels.
At Brentford, Onyeka is contracted for another 15 months, and his form has been closely monitored by head coach Keith Andrews, who is expected to welcome him back following the conclusion of Nigeria’s AFCON campaign.
The midfielder has built a reputation for ball-winning ability since joining the London club, traits that have also been evident in his performances for the Super Eagles.
While the comments in Morocco have drawn criticism, they also underline Onyeka’s long-term ambitions. For now, his focus remains on Nigeria’s push for continental success, even as speculation around his future is likely to continue following his candid remarks about a possible move to Manchester United.
