Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has confirmed that goalkeeper Andre Onana will return to the starting XI for the Europa League quarter-final second leg against Lyon at Old Trafford on Thursday (20:00 BST).
The Cameroon international was left out of the squad for United’s 4-1 Premier League defeat to Newcastle on Sunday, with Turkey’s Altay Bayindir stepping in.
Onana, 29, came under heavy criticism following the first leg in France, where he was at fault for both goals in the 2-2 draw.
Former United midfielder Nemanja Matic labeled him “one of the worst goalkeepers in Manchester United’s history” in response to comments Onana had made, suggesting United were “way better” than Lyon.
Despite the scrutiny, Amorim remains confident in Onana’s ability and believes the time is right for his return.
“We speak about managing players physically but also mentally,” said Amorim. “We had one weekend where I felt it was better for Andre not to play and a good thing for Altay to step in. He [Onana] will play tomorrow.”
Onana, who joined United for £44m from Inter Milan in 2023, is looking to bounce back after a challenging week.
Amorim explained his decision-making process, saying, “I have conversations with players, but sometimes it’s my feeling as a coach that drives the decision more than what they say. Andre deserves this opportunity.”
Defender Harry Maguire, speaking alongside Amorim, offered his support for Onana, highlighting the goalkeeper’s resilience and quality.
“He is a big personality and big character,” said Maguire. “In a career, you always have spells when you go up and down—it’s about how you build yourself up. Playing in front of Andre is great.”
With the tie finely balanced, Onana’s return could play a pivotal role as United seek to advance in the Europa League.
