Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has confirmed that goalkeeper Andre Onana will return to the starting lineup for Thursday’s Europa League quarter-final second leg against Lyon at Old Trafford.
The 29-year-old Cameroon international was dropped for the Red Devils’ 4-1 Premier League defeat to Newcastle last weekend, with Altay Bayindir stepping in for his league debut. However, Amorim says the decision was intended to give Onana a mental break and has now reaffirmed his faith in the former Inter Milan shot-stopper.
“We had one weekend where I felt it was better for Andre not to play,” said Amorim. “He will play tomorrow.”
Onana’s form has come under increasing scrutiny, especially after errors in the first leg in France, where United were held to a 2-2 draw. The situation was made worse when former United midfielder and current Lyon player Nemanja Matic labelled him “one of the worst goalkeepers in the club’s history.”
Despite the criticism, Amorim believes Onana deserves another chance.
“When I made that decision, I talked with Andre. Sometimes what a player says doesn’t match what I feel — my decision always comes from that understanding,” he added.
Club captain Harry Maguire echoed the manager’s sentiments, calling Onana “a big personality” who is capable of silencing critics.
“He’s an excellent goalkeeper,” said Maguire. “In any career, there are ups and downs — it’s how you respond. He’ll want to prove himself.”
Onana, signed for £44 million in 2023, has had a turbulent first spell at United. Despite being brought in to succeed David de Gea, his high-profile errors and inconsistent form have divided fans and pundits alike. But with Bayindir faltering on his debut and United’s season hinging on Europa League success to secure Champions League qualification, Amorim is turning to experience and trust.
Meanwhile, United have been dealt a blow with striker Joshua Zirzkee ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a hamstring injury. Dutch defender Matthijs de Ligt remains absent from training, and Ayden Heaven has suffered a “small setback” after returning from injury last week.
There was some good news for the squad, with veterans Jonny Evans and Tom Heaton both returning to training ahead of the crucial fixture.
With mounting pressure and Champions League qualification on the line, all eyes will be on Onana as he looks to redeem himself and lead United past Lyon into the semi-finals.
