Andre Onana’s first-half performance against Lyon in the Europa League was harshly criticised by Paul Scholes.
Onana, 29, was at fault for the game’s first goal when he was unable to save Thiago Almada’s in-swinging free kick.
And Onana was the only United player who didn’t want to make a mistake at Groupama Stadium.
Following Onana’s assertion that United was “way better” than their French rivals, former United midfielder and current Lyon player Nemanja Matic referred to the Cameroonian as one of United’s worst goalkeepers ever during a news conference on Wednesday.
Matic remarked, “I respect everyone, but you need to get the answer before you say that.”
“You should be careful what you say if you are among the worst goalkeepers in Manchester United’s history.”
He said, “I will doubt myself if David de Gea, Peter Schmeichel, or [Edwin] van der Sar said that, but if you are among the statistically worst goalkeepers in Man United’s recent history, he needs to prove it before he says, so we’ll see.”
Onana sent a statement on his Instagram account in response to the Serbian’s remarks.
Onana wrote, “I would never treat another club disrespectfully.” “We are aware that playing against a formidable opponent tomorrow will be challenging. Making our supporters proud is our first priority when it comes to performance preparation. I have, at least, won trophies with the world’s best club. Others are unable to say the same.
Onana’s error will, regrettably, be discussed during and after the Europa League match, with Scholes, a former United midfielder, sharing his opinions during halftime on TNT Sports.
Scholes remarked, “I would have assumed that he would have preferred to have kept his mouth shut before the game.” To be honest, I have no idea what the keeper is attempting to do. It’s a terrible error on his part.
Prior to the match, the former England player also shared his opinions on the rivalry between Matic and Onana.
“I don’t think it was something I would have done, try and provoke a team by saying you are better than them,” Scholes said.
“Matic overreacted slightly, it was a bit aggressive, but I don’t mind a bit of needle.”
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