Former Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic has launched a scathing attack on current Red Devils goalkeeper André Onana, calling him “one of the worst goalkeepers in the club’s history” after Onana claimed United were “way better” than Lyon ahead of their Europa League clash.
The war of words comes just days before Manchester United travel to France to face Olympique Lyonnais in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final showdown at the Groupama Stadium.
Onana’s Confident Claim Sparks Controversy
Following United’s goalless draw with Manchester City on Sunday, Onana made headlines by confidently suggesting that his side are far superior to Lyon.
Speaking to media after the match, the Cameroonian shot-stopper said, “Of course it’s not going to be easy but I think we are way better than them.”
While the statement may have been aimed at boosting confidence within the United camp, it didn’t sit well with one of Lyon’s most experienced players — and a former Red Devil — Nemanja Matic.
Matic, who spent five years at Manchester United between 2017 and 2022, did not hold back when asked about Onana’s comments.
Matic Responds: “Take Care What You Say”
In an interview ahead of Thursday night’s clash, Matic took a direct shot at Onana’s credentials and urged him to show more humility.
“I respect everyone,” Matic began. “But to say that then you need to get the answer. If you are one of the worst goalkeepers in Manchester United’s history, you need to take care with what you’re saying.”
The Serbian midfielder continued by comparing Onana to legendary Manchester United goalkeepers, including David De Gea, Peter Schmeichel, and Edwin van der Sar — all of whom played key roles in the club’s domestic and European success.
“If David de Gea or Peter Schmeichel or van der Sar said that, then I would question myself. But if you’re one of the statistically worst goalkeepers in United’s modern history, then you need to prove yourself before making statements like that.”
| Nemanja Matic replies to André Onana’s comments about Manchester United being better than Lyon:
“When you are one of the worst goalkeepers in Man United history, you need to take care what you’re talking about.”
— (fan) Frank (@AmorimEra_) April 9, 2025
Pressure on Onana Amid Mixed Season
Onana joined Manchester United from Inter Milan last summer as Erik ten Hag’s preferred option to replace David de Gea. The move was seen as a step toward modernizing United’s style of play with a goalkeeper comfortable with the ball at his feet.
However, his first season at Old Trafford has been far from smooth. Onana has faced heavy criticism for a string of errors, particularly in the early part of the season. While his form has improved, his overall performances have been inconsistent and often under scrutiny by pundits and fans alike.
Statistically, Onana has not fared well compared to his predecessors. Several reports have pointed to his save percentage and error-leading goals as among the worst for a first-choice United goalkeeper in the modern era.
United’s Unbeaten European Run vs. Lyon’s Resurgence
Despite their Premier League struggles — they currently sit 13th — Manchester United remain the only unbeaten team in this season’s UEFA club competitions. The Red Devils have navigated through the Europa League group stage and knockouts without tasting defeat.
Lyon, on the other hand, are enjoying a strong resurgence under Pierre Sage. They currently sit fifth in Ligue 1 after a tough start to the season. With Matic anchoring their midfield and younger talents stepping up, they present a formidable challenge for United.
The Europa League offers both clubs a path to silverware, and perhaps more importantly, Champions League qualification. With so much at stake, tensions are already boiling before a ball has even been kicked.
Will Onana Back Up His Words?
Thursday’s clash now carries extra spice, thanks to the fiery exchange between Matic and Onana. The spotlight will be firmly on the Cameroonian goalkeeper, who will be under pressure to deliver a clean sheet and back up his bold claim.
Matic, known for his calm demeanor and leadership, will surely be determined to prove a point against his former club. His comments have added fuel to the fire, turning what was already a crucial tie into a personal battle of pride and performance.
Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see whether Onana’s confidence translates into composure on the pitch — or if Matic’s words will come back to haunt him.
As Manchester United prepare to face Lyon on French soil, this Europa League quarter-final has taken on a life of its own — and the drama is just getting started.
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