Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has opened up about the complexities surrounding the club’s goalkeeping situation following the departure of Andre Onana. Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated Manchester derby, Amorim confirmed that Altay Bayindir will retain his place between the posts against Manchester City.
The decision comes after months of uncertainty triggered by Onana’s exit to Trabzonspor and the last-minute arrival of Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp. While Bayindir has stepped up since taking over the starting role, questions remain about whether he can fully establish himself as United’s long-term first-choice goalkeeper.
Onana’s time at Old Trafford was marked by highs and lows. Signed in 2023 as the successor to David de Gea, he initially struggled with costly mistakes but gradually found his rhythm, eventually earning three “Save of the Month” awards and playing a vital role in United’s FA Cup triumph. However, a pre-season hamstring injury and errors in cup competitions undermined his position, leading to Bayindir’s promotion and ultimately his own departure.
Amorim acknowledged the challenges while making clear his stance on the future: “Altay will continue to be the starter. For Lamens, this is a different league, a different country, and even a different ball. He has huge potential and will be important for the future. We are creating competition, but right now Altay starts.”
The manager emphasized that the decision was not about doubting Onana’s qualities but rather about timing and the need for a reset in the squad. He expressed good wishes for the Cameroonian goalkeeper while highlighting the importance of building for both the present and the future.
In addition to goalkeeping issues, Amorim provided an injury update, confirming that Matheus Cunha, Diogo Dalot, and Mason Mount will all miss the derby through injury. Despite these setbacks, he remains confident in his team’s readiness, noting their progress compared to last season when they shocked City with a dramatic late victory at the Etihad.
Looking ahead to Sunday’s clash, Amorim stressed that United’s focus is not on league standings but on maintaining their playing principles and proving their growth. He expressed belief in the squad’s ability to be competitive, insisting they are a stronger, more complete team than they were a year ago.
