‘In my opinion’: Amadou Onana opens up on comparisons to Marouane Fellaini

Everton midfielder Amadou Onana has discussed comparisons between himself and former Toffee Marouane Fellaini.

Fellaini joined the Blues from Standard Liege for a club record fee of £15m in the summer of 2008 and was an influential figure during his time on Merseyside.

His physical prowess and eye for goal made him a hit at Goodison Park, scoring 33 goals and contributing 26 assists in 177 games for the Blues.

Indeed, comparisons have been drawn between Fellaini and Amadou Onana, who moved to Everton in a £33m deal last year.

However, Onana has downplayed comparisons to his countryman, stating it is his ‘opinion’ that the two are ‘different players’.

Onana and Fellaini comparisons unjustified

Speaking with Sudlnfo Sports, the 22-year-old said: “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.”

The advanced role David Moyes deployed Fellaini in ensured he was a consistent threat in attack, often playing almost as a second striker.

Onana meanwhile tends to sit deeper in midfield and has only managed to score one goal since his arrival at Goodison Park in 2022.

Comparisons between the two seem lazy and based solely on their build, though hopefully Onana can begin to add goals to his game as he continues to develop.