Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana faces a potentially make-or-break match against Lyon in the Europa League quarter-final. After a 2-2 draw in the first leg, United’s season hangs in the balance. Onana’s bold claim that United were “way better” than Lyon in the first leg was met with criticism from former United midfielder Nemanja Matic, who labeled him “one of the worst goalkeepers in Manchester United’s history.”
Onana’s performance in France was marred by errors, and he was given a hostile reception by fans. United manager Ruben Amorim subsequently dropped him for the Premier League match against Newcastle, bringing in Altay Bayindir, who was at fault for the fourth goal in a 4-1 defeat.
Amorim now faces a difficult decision: should he bring Onana back in or stick with Bayindir? The stakes are high, with defeat potentially ending United’s season, while victory would keep their Europa League hopes alive and secure a lucrative Champions League spot for next season.
United paid around £47 million to sign Onana from Inter Milan in 2023, touting his ball-playing skills. However, the 29-year-old has struggled with consistency and developed a reputation for making errors. Amorim defended Onana after the Lyon match, explaining that he needed time to “disconnect” and recharge.
The importance of Thursday’s match cannot be overstated. United’s Premier League campaign has been disappointing, and a low finish would be embarrassing. However, a European trophy could transform Amorim’s rebuilding plans. Whether Onana remains central to those plans remains to be seen.
The pressure is mounting on Onana as he prepares to face Lyon. His £47 million transfer from Inter Milan in 2023 was expected to bring a new level of expertise to the United goal. However, the 29-year-old has struggled with consistency and developed a reputation for making errors. Amorim defended Onana after the Lyon match, explaining that he needed time to “disconnect” and recharge.
The importance of Thursday’s match cannot be overstated. United’s Premier League campaign has been disappointing, and a low finish would be embarrassing. However, a European trophy could transform Amorim’s rebuilding plans. Whether Onana remains central to those plans remains to be seen. United fans will be watching closely as the team takes on Lyon, hoping for a strong performance that could change the course of the season.