Ruben Amorim is weighing his options ahead of Manchester United’s crucial trip to Newcastle on Sunday.
The manager is considering giving Andre Onana a break after his recent errors in the 2-2 Europa League draw against Lyon.
Altay Bayindir, the team’s second-choice goalkeeper, is on standby to take the gloves for the match at St. James’ Park.
Onana’s Mistakes Under Scrutiny
Onana’s performance in Lyon raised concerns, as he was responsible for both goals conceded in Thursday’s match.
Despite United’s 2-2 draw, his mistakes were hard to overlook.
Amorim is reportedly looking to make several changes to his lineup, and Bayindir could be given a chance in goal as part of those adjustments.
The Need for a Competitive Team
Amorim has made it clear that his priority is to field a competitive team that can take on Newcastle effectively.
“We have to face Newcastle with a team that can be competitive to win the game,” he said.
He also mentioned that winning is the best preparation for the next match, but stressed the importance of being cautious with player management while still aiming to remain competitive.
Teammates Rally Behind Onana
Despite the criticism, Amorim has publicly supported Onana, and his teammate Joshua Zirkzee also came to his defense.
Zirkzee insisted that the squad remains united and that mistakes won’t lead to players being dropped.
“One hundred per cent,” Zirkzee affirmed, “We’re one team, so we’re not going to take someone out for making mistakes. That’s ridiculous.”
Mike Phelan’s Opinion on the Situation
However, former Manchester United assistant manager Mike Phelan offered a different perspective.
He believes Amorim may not have much choice but to make a change.
“That’s the biggest decision as a manager you have to make,” Phelan noted.
“Is there a No.2 goalkeeper at United capable of taking the No.1 role for the rest of the season? You can’t keep covering up those mistakes.”
Investigation into Allegations of Tear-Gassing
In addition to the goalkeeper dilemma, Manchester United is investigating reports that their fans were tear-gassed by French police during their trip to Lyon.
The club is gathering information to better understand the situation and determine what occurred.