Ruben Amorim confirms Andre Onana will start against Lyon in UEL

Ruben Amorim has confirmed that Andre Onana will return to the Manchester United squad for Thursday’s Europa League quarter-final second leg against Lyon.

Onana was absent from the United squad that suffered a 4-1 defeat to Newcastle United on Sunday. Amorim explained the decision, stating that it was “a good time to disconnect” for the goalkeeper.

The Cameroon international had come under criticism for his role in both goals conceded during the first leg against Lyon.

“Onana, he will play tomorrow,” Amorim said.

“As a coach and former player first of all I try to do things that can help a player in this situation.

“We had one weekend where I felt it was better for Andre Onana not to play and a good thing for Altay [Bayindir] to play.”

Altay Bayindir’s Premier League Debut Marred by Mistake

Altay Bayindir made his first Premier League start for Manchester United against Newcastle, replacing Andre Onana, who was absent from the match.

The 27-year-old, who joined United from Fenerbahce in the summer of 2023, endured a tough outing.

Bayindir was at fault for Newcastle’s fourth goal when his pass was intercepted by Joelinton, who then assisted Bruno Guimaraes to score.

Bayindir has had limited playing time at United, with Onana regularly selected for cup and European fixtures ahead of the Turkey international.

He has made only eight appearances for the club, keeping two clean sheets.

However, Bayindir did impress during an FA Cup clash against Arsenal in January, saving a penalty in normal time and another in the shootout to help United progress.

The Newcastle match marked the first Premier League game Onana had missed since his move to Old Trafford from Inter Milan nearly two years ago.

The 29-year-old has kept 23 clean sheets in 94 appearances for United across all competitions. Meanwhile, United’s recent 2-2 draw against Lyon in the Europa League also saw Onana make an error.

His attempt to save a Thiago Almada free kick in the first half saw the ball slip through his hands, allowing Lyon to take the lead.

Despite late goals from Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee, United conceded a stoppage-time equalizer from Rayan Cherki, who followed up on Onana’s initial save.

United currently sit 15th in the Premier League, 17 points adrift of fifth-placed Manchester City.