Tensions flared ahead of Lyon’s Europa League quarter-final showdown with Manchester United as former Red Devils
midfielder Nemanja Matic took aim at United’s current goalkeeper, Andre Onana, calling him “one of the worst
goalkeepers in the club’s history.”
The fiery comment was sparked by Onana’s earlier claim that United were “way better” than Lyon, a statement that
didn’t sit well with Matic. Speaking during a pre-match press briefing, Matic didn’t hold back. “If David De Gea, Peter
Schmeichel, or Edwin van der Sar said that, I would question myself,”
Matic said. “But when it comes from someone who is statistically one of the worst goalkeepers in Manchester
United’s modern history, it’s laughable.” Onana, who joined United from Inter Milan for £47 million, has had a mixed
debut season despite helping the team to an FA Cup win.
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Responding on social media, Onana defended himself with a jab at Matic, saying he wouldn’t disrespect another club
and subtly pointed out the Serbian’s lack of major trophies during his Old Trafford tenure.
Manchester United’s coach Ruben Amorim stepped in to support Onana, suggesting the goalkeeper’s comments were
meant to motivate his teammates rather than belittle Lyon. Amorim emphasized that Onana’s confidence should not
be mistaken for arrogance, especially during such a critical stage in European competition.
This verbal sparring adds spice to an already high-stakes fixture. While Matic, now playing for Lyon, brings experience
and grit to the French side, Onana will be under pressure to deliver a strong performance and silence critics, both from within and outside the club’s former ranks
