Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana has reportedly been left out of the squad for the Premier League fixture against Newcastle United on Sunday, following a shaky performance in midweek European action.
The Cameroonian international, who was at fault for both goals conceded in United’s 2-2 draw against Olympique Lyon in the first leg of their Europa League quarterfinal, has been given a break from action, according to British media reports.
BBC Sport stated that Onana’s exclusion is not permanent but a decision taken to allow him time to “rest and disconnect” after a string of high-pressure matches. Apart from his on-field complications, Onana’s wife encountered a horrible experience when she was the subject of a robbery in Manchester last month.
Who will replace Andre Onana?
In Onana’s absence, Turkish shot-stopper Altay Bayindir is expected to step in, making his Premier League debut. Bayindir last featured for United during the Europa League group stages in January.
Onana draws criticism for his Europa League performance
Onana’s performance against Lyon drew sharp criticism, most notably from former Manchester United midfielder and current Lyon player Nemanja Matic, who called him “one of the worst goalkeepers” in the club’s history
Despite the criticism, United manager Ruben Amorim came to Onana’s defense, admitting that he himself had made more mistakes this season and insisting that the goalkeeper remained a valuable part of the squad.
Amorim said, “There’s nothing I can say to Andre in this moment that will help him, so the most important thing is to be natural and then when the time comes I will choose the best XI to play. But I’m really confident in Andre.”
The 29-year-old is expected to return to the starting lineup for the second leg of the quarterfinal against Lyon at Old Trafford later in the week.
