The decision follows a difficult outing for Andre Onana in Thursday’s 2-2 Europa League draw against Lyon, where he was at fault for both goals. The performance came just a day after former United midfielder Nemanja Matic controversially labelled him “one of the worst goalkeepers” in the club’s history.
Sources close to the team confirmed that Onana has been omitted from Ruben Amorim’s matchday squad to allow the Cameroonian shot-stopper some time to “rest and disconnect.” The move is not considered permanent, and Onana is expected to return for the second leg of the Europa League quarter-final at Old Trafford on Thursday.
Meanwhile, Newcastle will also be without their manager Eddie Howe for Sunday’s match, as he has been hospitalized after feeling unwell for several days, the club announced.
Turkey’s Altay Bayındır is set to replace André Onana in goal for Manchester United’s clash with Newcastle, marking his Premier League debut and just his sixth appearance of the season. The 26-year-old has only featured in cup competitions so far and hasn’t played since January.
Andre Onana
Onana’s omission follows a tough stretch for the Cameroonian, who has made eight errors leading to goals in all competitions since the start of last season the most by any goalkeeper at a Premier League club.
Despite criticism, United manager Ruben Amorim stood by the 29-year-old after his error-strewn display in the 2-2 Europa League draw against Lyon, saying he himself has made more mistakes this season than Onana.
Signed for £47 million from Inter Milan in 2023, Onana has struggled to justify his price tag. Though he’s featured in every Premier League game since arriving 69 in total his performances have drawn increasing scrutiny. The first goal against Lyon, where he failed to deal with a straightforward shot, highlighted his ongoing inconsistency.
Former manager Erik ten Hag had backed Onana to replace fan-favorite David de Gea, valuing his ball-playing ability. But since then, Onana’s form and confidence have wavered.
In addition to his on-field difficulties, Onana has also faced personal challenges off the pitch, compounding what has been a turbulent time for the United goalkeeper.
