Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana is set to return to the starting lineup for Thursday’s Europa League quarter-final second leg against Lyon at Old Trafford. The decision comes after Onana was rested in the 4-1 weekend defeat to Newcastle, a move that drew attention following his costly mistakes in the first leg against Lyon, which ended 2-2.
Despite reaffirming his faith in Onana, head coach Ruben Amorim has not ruled out the possibility of signing a new goalkeeper in the summer. The manager emphasized that every position in the squad will be evaluated as the club looks to rebuild and strengthen ahead of the next season. “We need to improve every position on the field,” he said. “Goalkeeper is the same. We can work with André. He has already proved he is a top player during his time with Inter.”
Onana has faced criticism since joining United in July 2023, following a string of high-profile errors that have cost the team in key matches. Though he remains the club’s first-choice goalkeeper, Amorim’s recent decision to bench him suggests his position is not guaranteed long-term. Turkish goalkeeper Altay Bayindir was given the nod against Newcastle but struggled in a disappointing team performance.
Amorim, known for his direct and pragmatic approach, admitted that his choice to rest Onana may have increased pressure on the 29-year-old ahead of Thursday’s decisive clash. However, he remains confident in the goalkeeper’s ability to respond. “This is the big factor in being a coach: everything you do has two ways,” he said. “If he is really good tomorrow – I am sure of that – but if not, people will say it was a bad decision. We never know.”
The manager also stressed the importance of communication and transparency with his players. Before making the decision to reintroduce Onana into the starting XI, he spoke to the Cameroonian to explain his reasoning and ensure the player felt supported. “When I imagine the game, I see André Onana,” he said. “He had a weekend of rest, so now he is ready to return to competition. It’s important to explain decisions to players so they understand the thought process.”
Manchester United will be aiming to secure a semi-final berth against either Rangers or Athletic Bilbao. The 2-2 draw in France leaves the tie finely poised, and Amorim will be relying on his team to deliver a composed and clinical performance at home.
However, United’s preparations have been dealt a blow with the news that forward Joshua Zirkzee will be sidelined for the rest of the season due to a hamstring injury picked up in the defeat to Newcastle. The Dutchman had shown promise in recent weeks and his absence is another setback for a squad that has struggled with consistency throughout the campaign. “Let’s prepare him for the next one,” said Amorim. “It is tough for him, especially at this moment. He has to be ready now to recover.”
As United head into a crucial European tie, all eyes will be on Onana. The pressure is high, but the stage is set for him to redeem himself and reaffirm his place at the club—at least for now.
