Importance Score: 5 / 100 🟠
Manchester United’s Onana Benched for Newcastle Clash After Europa League Errors
Manchester United’s first-choice goalkeeper, André Onana, will be given a休息 for Sunday’s Premier League fixture against Newcastle United. This decision by manager Ruben Amorim comes after Onana’s subpar showing in their recent Europa League draw with Lyon, where he was considered responsible for conceding two goals in the 2-2 stalemate.
Bayindir to Make Premier League Debut
Altay Bayindir is poised to step in and make his Premier League debut at St James’ Park, filling the void left by Onana. However, it is anticipated that Onana, 29, will return to the starting lineup for the crucial Europa League quarter-final second leg against Lyon at Old Trafford next Thursday. Onana did not accompany the Manchester United squad as they traveled to Newcastle on Saturday.
Europa League Errors Prompt Rest
During Thursday’s match at Groupama Stadium in Lyon, Onana conceded an opening goal directly from Thiago Almada’s free-kick in the first half. Later, in the game’s dying moments, a shot from Corentin Tolisso was deflected by Onana into the path of Rayan Cherki, who capitalized and scored.
Despite publicly backing Onana immediately following the Lyon game, Amorim reportedly believes that removing the goalkeeper from the immediate spotlight will be advantageous for him. This decision takes into account both his recent errors on the pitch and personal challenges he has faced off the field.
Off-Field Incident: Family Targeted in Robbery
Recently, Onana’s wife, Melanie Kamayou, was unfortunately the victim of a violent street robbery. This incident necessitated 24-hour security for the family. It is understood that Ms. Kamayou was accosted by a thief who stole a Hermès handbag, estimated to be worth £62,000, and a Rolex watch in Alderley Edge in late March as she was heading to meet a friend for dinner.
Performance Under Scrutiny and Matic Spat
Despite the distress caused by this incident, Onana has continued to play for Manchester United. However, his performance in the Lyon match has drawn increased scrutiny, further compounded by a public disagreement with former Manchester United player Nemanja Matic before the game. Matic, now playing for Lyon, reportedly labeled Onana as one of the least impressive goalkeepers in Manchester United’s history after Onana suggested Amorim’s team was superior to their French opposition. Onana responded by highlighting his trophy wins with Manchester United, contrasting it with Matic’s trophy haul during his five years at the club.
Bayindir’s Return and Opportunity
Bayindir recently rejoined the Manchester United squad at Nottingham Forest earlier this month following a period of absence due to a nine-match injury. To date, the Turkish goalkeeper’s seven appearances for the club have all been in domestic cup competitions and the Europa League. He is now anticipated to be presented with his first Premier League start against Newcastle.