André Onana’s Absence from Manchester United’s Lineup: A Closer Look
In a surprising turn of events, André Onana has been left out of Manchester United‘s squad for their upcoming Premier League clash against Newcastle United on Sunday. This decision comes on the heels of significant criticism following his performance against Lyon. According to a source who spoke with ESPN, Onana did not travel with Ruben Amorim’s squad to Tyneside on Saturday. Instead, the No. 2 goalkeeper, Altay Bayindir, is set to take his place at St James’ Park.
The decision to rest Onana, as explained by a source close to the player, is intended to allow the 29-year-old to “rest and disconnect.” Despite this temporary exclusion, Onana has been reassured that he remains Amorim’s first-choice goalkeeper. He is expected to return for the Europa League quarterfinal second leg against Lyon at Old Trafford on Thursday. The tie is delicately poised after a 2-2 draw in France.
It’s been a challenging week for Onana, who found himself in a verbal spat with former United player Nemanja Matic. The tension escalated when Onana made two costly mistakes in the game against Lyon, which ultimately denied United a victory. Matic did not hold back, labeling Onana as “one of the worst goalkeepers in United’s history” in a scathing critique, responding to Onana’s assertion that United are “way better” than Lyon.
Onana, not one to shy away, responded on social media, pointing out that “some can’t say” they have won trophies at Old Trafford, a clear jab at Matic’s trophy-less stint at the club from 2017 to 2022. Off the field, Onana has also been dealing with personal issues, as his wife was the victim of a street robbery in Cheshire in March. A man has since been charged in connection with the incident.
Despite the recent blunders against Lyon, including one in stoppage time, Amorim has publicly backed Onana, expressing his continued confidence in the former Ajax star. However, the decision to bench Onana for the Newcastle game suggests a strategic move to shield him from further scrutiny and to give Bayindir his Premier League debut, more than 18 months after his transfer from Fenerbahce in 2023.
- Onana’s absence is a temporary measure, not a permanent replacement.
- Bayindir will make his Premier League debut against Newcastle.
- Onana is expected to return for the Europa League match against Lyon.
- Onana’s recent form has been under intense scrutiny.
- Off-field issues have also impacted Onana’s focus.
As the situation unfolds, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Onana responds to this period of rest and reflection. Will he come back stronger and more focused, or will this be the beginning of a more significant shift in Manchester United’s goalkeeping hierarchy? Only time will tell, but for now, the spotlight is on Altay Bayindir as he steps up to the challenge at St James’ Park.
Originally Written by: Rob Dawson
