Nemanja Matic has described Andre Onana as one of the worst goalkeepers in Manchester United’s history after the Cameroonian claimed his team were ‘way better’ than Lyon.
The Lyon midfielder, who spent five seasons at Old Trafford, did not hold back when reacting to Onana’s comments ahead of the match.
The former United star said: “To say something like that, you need to have courage. I respect everyone, but I need to answer.
“When you’re one of the worst goalkeepers in Man Utd’s history, you need to take care about what you are talking about.
“If David de Gea, Peter Schmeichel or Van der Sar said that, I would question myself.
“But if you are statistically one of the worst goalkeepers in Man Utd’s modern history, then he needs to show that before he says so. We will see.”
Matic & Lyon may punish Onana for his ill-advised comments
Manager Ruben Amorim will be eager to mark his first European campaign with a title.
The Europa League remains United’s only route to lifting a trophy this season.
However, Onana’s comments have potentially made a tricky tie even more difficult for the Red Devils.
He doubled down by publishing a social media post mocking Matic’s five trophyless years with United.
I would never be disrespectful to another club. We know that tomorrow will be a difficult game against a strong opponent.
— Andre Onana (@AndreyOnana) April 9, 2025
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. pic.twitter.com/3easLRIz3d
Given what each player has achieved during their respective careers, Onana would have been well-advised not to infuriate Matic.
His underwhelming performances have hindered United’s hopes of success on the domestic front, and he has little to gloat about ahead of this tie.
