Amadou Onana has been quite the hit at Everton, and the Belgian midfielder has naturally drawn comparisons to former Goodison Park hero Marouane Fellaini.
As a tall, powerful, Belgian midfielder, it is easy to see why comparisons were made between the two. Fellaini made 177 appearances for the Toffees, scoring 33 and assisting 26 times.
Onana has now downplayed the comparisons with Fellaini, and claimed that whilst it is an honour to be compared to the former midfielder, he has a long way to go, whilst also possessing different qualities to him.
Onana plays down Fellaini comparisons
Speaking to Belgian outlet SudInfo Sports, Onana claimed that he is a different style of player to Fellaini, and that he would like to improve at his attacking set pieces if he is to live up to the former fan favourite.
“It’s true that this comparison was solely based on the fact that we were big players with a lot of physical impact,” he stated.
“Marouane was a crucial player for the Red Devils, he allowed this team to reach the heights. But Marouane Fellaini is Marouane Fellaini. And Amadou Onana is Amadou Onana.
“Marouane had qualities that I don’t have, and vice versa. This is the reason why we are, in my opinion, different players.
“This is clearly a point on which I can still improve enormously. I try to work on it regularly after training at Everton. Regarding this aspect of the game, I know that I have not yet reached my maximum potential. This will allow me – I hope – to be more dangerous in the set phases.”
Onana is not Fellaini
Despite their similarities in size, Onana plays a less advanced role than Fellaini, who often used to play behind the striker or even upfront.
Fellaini had much more focus on goals, whilst Onana may perhaps be better on the ball.
Onana has impressed since his arrival from Lille last season, and the club will hope to keep hold of him in the long-term.
With Onana featuring in every game so far this season, he has become a crucial player under Sean Dyche, and will continue to grow as he gets older.
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