Trending 
Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana has fired back at Lyon’s Nemanja Matic after the Serbian midfielder labelled him “one of the worst goalkeepers in Manchester United’s history” ahead of Thursday’s Europa League quarter-final clash.
The Cameroon international made headlines earlier this week after suggesting that United were “way better” than Lyon, despite the English side enduring a dismal season. His comment, made following a goalless draw with Manchester City, was met with a scathing response from Matic.
Speaking ahead of the first leg in France, the normally reserved Matic didn’t hold back: “If you’re one of the statistically worst goalkeepers in Man United’s modern history, then you need to show something before talking. If David de Gea, Schmeichel, or Van der Sar had said it, I would think twice. But not him.”
The war of words escalated when Onana responded via social media, taking a swipe at Matic’s lack of silverware during his time at Old Trafford. “At least I’ve lifted trophies with the greatest club in the world. Some can’t say the same,” Onana wrote.
Matic, who previously won honours at Chelsea, failed to collect any silverware at United, while Onana won the FA Cup in his first season following a £47 million move from Inter Milan in 2023.
While Onana has managed nine clean sheets in the Premier League this season – with only two goalkeepers ahead of him – he has also come under scrutiny for a string of costly errors that have raised doubts about his dependability.
Despite the sharp exchange, Matic was quick to clarify his admiration for United, stating, “I’ll always keep United in my heart” and expressed his hope that manager Ruben Amorim – his former Benfica teammate – succeeds at the club. “He’s got the right profile. He just needs time and support.”
Amorim, however, tried to calm the situation, insisting Onana’s initial remarks had been misinterpreted. “If you listen to the full quote, he starts by saying Lyon are a very, very good team. Sometimes it’s just a misunderstanding,” the Portuguese coach said.
Manchester United’s goalless draw against City left them in 13th place in the Premier League, marking what could be their worst league finish in over three decades. With the club’s financial position worsening, winning the Europa League remains their only realistic chance of qualifying for European football next season.
