Former Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic launched a harsh attack on current goalkeeper Andre Onana, branding him the “worst goalkeeper” in club history.
Matic’s comment is a recent assertion of Onana that United is “better” than French side Lyon, ahead of the Europa League quarterfinals.
United have experienced a turbulent domestic season that puts them at No. 13 in the Premier League and will face Lyon on Thursday, April 10 in the first leg of the European tie. Despite their alliance, the UK remains unbeaten. Meanwhile, Lyon ranks fifth in Ligue 1.
Onana is confident about the upcoming game after a purposeless draw at Manchester Derby on Sunday, noting that while the match against Lyon wasn’t easy, he believes United is on the upper side.
Onana’s remarks don’t sit well with Matic, who is obviously angry when asked to respond. The Serbian international, who served in the Premier League with Manchester United and Chelsea, has no strong assessment of the Cameroon goalkeeper.
“You know, I respect everyone, but to say that this is what you need to give,” Matic said. “If you’re one of the worst goalkeepers in Manchester United’s history, you need to take care of what you’re talking about.”
Matic added that if the comments come from legends like David de Gea, Peter Schmeichel or Edwin van der Sar, it would bear the weight. “But if you’re one of the statistically worst goalkeepers in Manchester United’s modern history, he needs to prove it before he says anything. We’ll see.”
Onana, who joined United from Inter Milan in the summer of 2023, has faced criticism for a series of incredible performances since his arrival, with his status and consistency growing in scrutiny by fans and experts. The Europa League draw with Lyon is now a backdrop of seeking redemption in European competition amid new tensions within the joint camp.
