Matic Vs. Onana: Keeper Controversy Sparks Debate

‎Nemanja Matić has blasted André Onana’s claim that Manchester United is “way better” than Lyon by branding the Cameroon international as “one of the worst goalkeepers in United’s history.”

‎Onana later responded on Wednesday by taking a jab at Matić, commenting that “not everyone” can say they have lifted a trophy at United.

‎Although Matić participated in several finals during his five years at Old Trafford, he departed without any silverware.

‎Onana had been bullish about United’s chances in their Europa League quarterfinal first leg in France on Thursday, saying ahead of the game that “I think we are way better than them.”

‎Matić, who is now playing for Lyon, was asked about the comments at a pre-match news conference on Wednesday.

‎The Serbian midfielder hit back by savaging the form Onana has shown since joining United.

‎”You need to have cover to say something like that,” said Matić, who made 189 appearances for United between 2017 and 2022.

‎”I respect everyone, but to say that, then you need to get an answer.

‎”If you are one of the worst goalkeepers in Man United’s history, you need to take care about what you are talking about.”

‎Onana replaced David De Gea a former teammate of Matić as United’s No.1 when he joined from Inter Milan in a deal worth more than £40 million ($51m).

‎The 29-year-old has been heavily criticized after making a series of mistakes since arriving in 2023.

‎United will travel to Lyon on Wednesday, currently positioned 13th in the Premier League and coming off a stretch of only four victories in their last 12 matches across all competitions.

‎Meanwhile, Lyon are fifth in Ligue 1 and have six of their last seven games.

‎”If David De Gea, Peter Schmeichel or [Edwin] van der Sar said that, then I would question myself,” Matić said.

‎”But if you are statistically one of the worst goalkeepers in Man United’s modern history, he needs to show that before he says. We will see.”

‎In response, Onana posted a picture on X of himself lifting last season’s FA Cup and wrote, “I would never be disrespectful to another club. We know that tomorrow will be a difficult game against a strong opponent.

‎”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.”