Ruben Amorim, the Manchester United head coach, has confirmed that Andre Onana will be in the starting line up for Thursday’s Europa League quarter-final second leg against Lyon despite his errors in recent games.
Onana was responsible for both of the goals in United’s 2-2 draw in the first leg, letting Thiago Almada’s free-kick slip in and then failing to hold on to the ball which fell to Rayan Cherki for a stoppage-time equaliser. Since the start of last season, the Cameroonian has made eight errors leading to goals, more than any other Premier League goalkeeper.
He was dropped for Sunday’s 4-1 defeat at Newcastle, where his replacement, Altay Bayindir, made an error to rival his own gaffe. Onana is, however, mentally prepared for a return according to Amorim.
“Onana plays tomorrow,” Amorim said. “We took care of him physically and mentally. “I thought it was better for him not to play on the weekend, and now he’s ready.”
Amorim knocked down speculation over Onana’s possible replacement in the summer, insisting the goalkeeper can remain an integral component of the squad. “We need to strengthen all positions, and Andre has already demonstrated that he’s a top keeper in Inter,” he continued.
The captain Harry Maguire backed Onana, adding: “He’s had a fantastic career. Every player has highs and lows – he’ll get through this.”
United are yet to lose a European tie at Old Trafford to Lyon, having faced them twice before.
