- Tensions are rising ahead of Manchester United’s Europa League clash with Lyon, as a heated exchange erupts between Andre Onana and Nemanja Matic.
- Onana claimed United were "way better" than Lyon, prompting a sharp response from Matic, who called him one of the club’s worst modern-era goalkeepers.
- Notably, Manchester United desperately need a result, as Europa League glory is their likeliest route to Champions League football.
As Manchester United prepared for their Europa League showdown with Lyon, the spotlight momentarily shifted from the pitch to a simmering war of words between two players: Andre Onana and Nemanja Matic.
The Cameroonian goalkeeper started the verbal exchange earlier this week by declaring that United were "way better" than their quarter-final opponents, a statement that didn’t sit well with Matic.
The former Red Devils midfielder, now at Lyon, lashed back by calling Onana “one of the worst goalkeepers in Manchester United's modern history.” The exchange quickly went viral, creating a tense backdrop ahead of Thursday night’s clash at the Groupama Stadium.
United boss Ruben Amorim, however, stepped in to cool the temperature. Speaking to the press ahead of the tie, Amorim defended his goalkeeper and sought to provide context to Onana’s controversial remarks,
“If you look at the full quote, Andre began by saying Lyon are a really good team, he was just trying to show his belief in our squad. That’s not disrespectful—it’s confidence,” Amorim explained.
Amorim, who played with Matic at Benfica and now coaches Onana, described both players as “proud but good guys,” and emphasised that the off-field drama would fade once the match got underway,
“Tomorrow, it won’t matter,” he said.
The match itself carries enormous significance for Manchester United. Currently languishing in 13th place in the Premier League and 13 points adrift of the top seven, the Europa League may represent their last chance to secure European football next season, as the tournament winner gains automatic qualification for the UEFA Champions League.
Despite a goalless draw with Manchester City last weekend, Amorim remained optimistic,
“We’re more cohesive now, players like Garnacho are defending better, and Ugarte and Casemiro have given us more balance. Even our strikers, Hojlund and Zirkzee, are pressing and helping in defence. It’s not just about the backline anymore. It’s a team effort,” he said.
As United aim to silence critics and reignite their European ambitions, all eyes will be on how Matic and Onana will react while on the pitch.
Amorim to offload two Man Utd stars in transfer window
Previously, TheRadar reported that Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim appears ready to make bold decisions regarding his squad, as reports from Manchester suggest the Portuguese tactician is prepared to offload two high-profile players during the January transfer window.
The former Sporting CP manager, who replaced Erik ten Hag in November, has endured a turbulent start at Old Trafford and is eager to reshape his team for the remainder of the season.
