During last week’s dramatic Europa League quarter-final clash between Manchester United and Lyon, tensions boiled over between former Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic and current United goalkeeper Andre Onana.
The row started earlier in the week when Matic took offense at Onana’s comments about Lyon being a ‘very good team’ but still believing United were ‘better.’
Matic didn’t hold back, responding by labeling Onana “one of the worst goalkeepers in Man United history.”
Onana’s Mistakes Come Back to Haunt Him
As it turned out, Onana’s words came back to haunt him during the first leg of the quarter-final in France.
He made key mistakes in the lead-up to both of Lyon’s goals, and the French side’s supporters jeered him relentlessly throughout the match.
It was clear that Matic’s criticism of Onana had struck a nerve, and the goalkeeper’s performance left much to be desired.
Paul Scholes Gets Involved and Tells Matic to Focus on the Game
Ahead of the second leg of the Europa League quarter-final at Old Trafford, former United legend Paul Scholes was seen speaking with Matic on the pitch.
Scholes, who had played against Matic numerous times during his own career, couldn’t resist giving a bit of advice.
Speaking on TNT Sports, Scholes revealed, “I just told him to leave our goalkeeper alone… but no, that was it. He’s some player, Matic.
He looks well, he’s nearly 37, but hopefully, he doesn’t have a good night tonight.”
Onana’s Social Media Response and Regret
Before the first leg, Onana had continued the war of words with Matic on social media, stating, “I would never be disrespectful to another club. We focus on preparing a performance to make our fans proud.
At least I’ve lifted trophies with the greatest club in the world. Some can’t say the same.”
But it wasn’t long before Onana’s performance during the match suggested he might be regretting his earlier remarks.
Scholes Criticizes Onana’s Goalkeeping and Suggests a Need for Change
In the aftermath of the game, Scholes was vocal about Onana’s mistakes, criticizing the goalkeeper’s performance, especially after the first goal. “It’s a really bad mistake,” Scholes commented.
“The ball bounces right in front of him, it’s an awful mistake.”
On the second goal, Scholes recommended that Onana work on his handling skills, even hinting that United might need to bring in a new goalkeeper this summer to challenge Onana for his spot.
United’s Goalkeeping Situation Under Scrutiny
Scholes raised concerns about United’s goalkeeping situation, suggesting that Onana’s mistakes may force the club to reconsider their goalkeeper options. “
A goalkeeper is a very important part of a team, but he has not been quite good enough,” Scholes said. “Maybe he needs some competition.”
With Manchester United’s limited budget, Scholes questioned whether the team would focus on a new goalkeeper or prioritize other areas of the squad, such as forwards and midfielders.
Looking Ahead: Can Onana Improve or Will United Need to Make a Change?
While Onana’s potential remains evident, with Scholes acknowledging his past success at Inter Milan, there’s no doubt that his performances at United have raised more questions than answers.
With a crucial summer ahead for United, the team may need to assess whether Onana can find his form or if a change is needed in the goalkeeping department.