Matic and Onana engage in verbal warfare ahead of Europa QFs, adding a layer of spice to the nature of the contest.
Matic and Onana have put out verbal volleys to each other ahead Lyon’s UEFA Europa League Quarterfinal with Manchester United.
After the Cameroonian stated that his club was significantly superior to Lyon, Nemanja Matic called André Onana one of the worst goalkeepers in Manchester United’s history.
Onana responded to the players’ growing argument before Thursday’s Europa League quarterfinal opening leg at Lyon by pointing out that Matic had won nothing while playing for United between 2017 and 2022.
The midfielder said: “I respect everyone but to say that then you need to get the answer. If you are one of the worst goalkeepers in Man United’s history you need to take care what you are talking.”
Matic compared the 29-year-old unfavourably with three of United’s first-choice goalkeepers before Onana. He said: “If David de Gea or Peter Schmeichel or [Edwin] van der Sar said that then I will question myself but if you are one of the statistically worst goalkeepers in Man United’s modern history then he needs to show that before he says, so we will see.”
After Sunday’s goalless draw with Manchester City, Onana had stated, “Of course it’s not going to be easy but I think we are way better than them,” in reference to Lyon’s challenge.
In response to Matic’s remarks, he shared a photo of himself holding the FA Cup on social media on Wednesday along with the caption, “I would never be disrespectful to another club.” We are aware that playing against a formidable opponent tomorrow will be challenging. Making our supporters proud is our first priority when it comes to performance preparation. I have, at least, won trophies with the world’s best club. Others are unable to say the same.”
Ruben Amorim attempted to play down the spat. “Tomorrow this will not matter,” United’s head coach said with reference to the game. “If you see the full quote of André Onana, it’s quite different. The first sentence is Lyon is a very good team, so sometimes the players or the coaches don’t always listen to the full quote and sometimes it’s just a misunderstanding.”
Amorim referenced his knowledge of Matic, a former Benfica teammate. “All the quotes [from Onana], you can’t see disrespect there, just respect but trying to give confidence and to show confidence in the team, especially this year,” he said. “Everybody can talk bad things about Man United. I know Nemanja Matic, what a good guy he is. Tomorrow Onana is going to play.”