Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has confirmed that under-fire goalkeeper Andre Onana will return to the starting lineup for Thursday’s crucial Europa League quarter-final second leg against Lyon.
The 29-year-old Cameroonian faced heavy criticism after two major errors led to goals in the first leg, which ended in a 2-2 draw in France. As a result, he was dropped for United’s 4-1 Premier League defeat to Newcastle on Sunday, with back-up keeper Altay Bayindir stepping in.
But Amorim says it’s time for Onana to bounce back.
“Onana will play tomorrow,” the manager told reporters. “Sometimes you give a player space—physically and mentally. He’s had a short break, now he’s ready.”
Amorim emphasized the importance of mental resilience, stating that resting Onana was a calculated decision, not a punishment.
“As a coach, I have to manage players not just physically but mentally. It was right to rest him, and now it’s right to bring him back,” he explained.
Despite inconsistent performances this season, Amorim defended Onana’s overall quality, pointing to his previous success at Inter Milan. He also acknowledged that Manchester United must look at improving all positions ahead of the summer transfer window—but without singling out the goalkeeper.
“Goalkeeper is part of the team. If we attack better, we defend better. Andre has already proved he’s a top player,” he said.
United defender and former captain Harry Maguire also came to Onana’s defense.
“Andre’s a big character. He’s got experience, and he’ll want to show everyone what he’s capable of tomorrow,” Maguire said. “We believe in him.”
Injury Blow: Zirkzee Out for the Season
Amorim also confirmed a significant setback: forward Joshua Zirkzee is out for the remainder of the season after suffering a hamstring injury during Sunday’s loss to Newcastle.
“Joshua is out. He won’t play again this season,” Amorim said. “It’s hard, especially when he was improving so much.”
United, despite their rocky Premier League form, still have a shot at redemption. Winning the Europa League not only delivers silverware but also guarantees a place in next season’s Champions League—a massive incentive for the club and its financial outlook.
“Making the Champions League changes everything—financially, structurally. But it also means more challenges. The team still needs a lot of work and time to grow,” Amorim added.
