Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee has defended goalkeeper Andre Onana after his costly mistakes in the Europa League quarter-final draw at Lyon. Onana was at fault for both of Lyon’s goals as United were held to a 2-2 draw in the first leg in France on Thursday.
Zirkzee slammed the “ridiculous” criticism of Onana, saying, “One hundred per cent. We’re one team, so we’re not going to take someone out for making mistakes. That’s ridiculous.” He added that the team is united and will support Onana, who will be in the spotlight when United head to Newcastle on Sunday.
“We just have to focus on the next game, and that’s Newcastle away, and then we all know what we have to do when we face them again at home next week,” Zirkzee said. “I’m sure with the full support of the stadium, it’s going to be difficult for them and easier for us, but they’re a great team – let’s not forget that – and it’s not going to be easy, but we all want to win, we have to win, so we’ll see.”
The Europa League is United’s last chance to salvage the season with silverware, and Zirkzee emphasized the importance of winning the tournament. “We have to win it, and we all know that. There’s no way around that. It’s the only thing we have to do,” he said.
United manager Ruben Amorim has also backed Onana, saying, “One player has a mistake, all the team has a mistake” when asked about the goalkeeper after the game.