Manchester United are at the heart of an out-of-brew controversy after former midfielder Nemanja Matic was fired by Andre Onana ahead of the Europa League quarter-finals with Lyon.
Now on the League One side, Matic has been troubled by recent remarks made by Onana, who suggested that United are “a lot better” than their French opponents.
The veteran Serbian midfielder, who appeared in 189 United between 2017 and 2022, did not hold back when responding with pre-match media mandates.
nemanja Matic takes a brutal dig into Man United goalkeeper Andre Onana
Matic questioned Onana’s authority to make such comparisons, noting that only iconic united goalkeepers like Edwin van der Sal, Peter Schmeichel, or David de Gere had the right to make a bold statement about the club’s position.
He went further, implying that Onana was one of the worst goalkeepers in United’s history. This is a harsh criticism from the 36-year-old midfielder.
As quoted in BBC Sport, Matic commented:
“You know, I respect everyone, but to say that we need to give an answer.
“If you are one of the worst goalkeepers in Man United history, you need to be concerned about what you are talking about.
“If it was (Edwin) Van Der Sal, (Peter) Schmeichel, or (David) DeGear, I would ask myself a question. But you need to cover it to say something like that.”
Onana boasts of his silverware and bites
The Cameroon goalkeeper responded quickly about X, denying his intention to disregard Lyon. Onana reveals that his words have been misunderstood and accepts Lyon’s quality, and says United are preparing a strict tie.
He also got the opportunity to highlight his contributions at Old Trafford, noting that he has already lifted silverware at the club. He’s not always able to claim that anyone can, and he’s delving into the Matic, which has never won a silverware with the Red Devils.
A war of words only increases tension ahead of what is already a significant showdown. United take care of the Premier League mid-table, and the Europa League presents its best chance to save a disappointing season under Reuben Amorim.
For Matic, this tie represents a return with something to prove. During his five years at United, he was a reliable midfielder. Now he brings the same drive he aims to influence Lyon against his previous club.