Tensions are boiling ahead of Manchester United’s Europa League quarter-final first leg against Lyon, after Nemanja Matić brutally clapped back at André Onana’s claim that the Red Devils are “way better” than the French side.
Matić, now at Lyon, didn’t hold back at his pre-match press conference on Wednesday, in response to what he saw as arrogant and disrespectful comments by Onana.
“You need to have cover to say something like that,” Matić fired. “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 Fires Back: “I’ve Lifted Trophies – Some Can’t Say the Same”
Onana, never one to shy away from the spotlight, hit back just hours later with a post on X, subtly throwing shade at Matić’s trophyless spell at Old Trafford.
“At least I’ve lifted trophies with the greatest club in the world. Some can’t say the same.”
The post featured a picture of Onana holding the 2024 FA Cup, his first silverware with United, despite a season riddled with criticism and high-profile blunders.
“If De Gea, Schmeichel or Van der Sar Said That…”
Matić wasn’t done. In a clear nod to Manchester United’s goalkeeping greats, the Serbian midfielder — who made 189 appearances for the club between 2017 and 2022 — added:
“If David De Gea, Peter Schmeichel or [Edwin] van der Sar said that, then I would question myself.
“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.”
Amorim Plays Peacemaker: “It’s a Misunderstanding”
Trying to douse the flames, United manager Ruben Amorim defended his goalkeeper, insisting Onana’s remarks had been taken out of context.
“If you see the full quote of André Onana, it’s quite different,” Amorim explained.
“The first sentence is that we know it’s a very, very good team. Sometimes the players or coaches don’t listen to the full quote and sometimes it’s a misunderstanding.
“I think he [Matić] hears some things by half. Not the whole story.”
Amorim added that Onana’s confidence was vital for a United team that has been under siege from media and fans during a turbulent season.
Backdrop: A Battle of Mid-Table Giants
Despite their storied history, United are languishing in 13th place in the Premier League, with just four wins from their last 12 matches.
Lyon, on the other hand, sit fifth in Ligue 1 and are in red-hot form with six wins in their last seven games.
What was already a high-stakes clash now has a personal edge, with ex-teammates turning rivals and words flying faster than the ball.
Thursday’s match in France just got a lot more interesting.
