Man United Legend Matic Brutally Labels Onana ‘One of the Worst Goalkeepers’

Matic vs. Onana: Former United Midfielder Unleashes Brutal Assessment

The gloves are officially off between former Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic and current shot-stopper Andre Onana. In a stunning verbal attack that’s sent shockwaves through football circles, Matic has branded Onana as “one of the worst goalkeepers in Man United’s history” following the Cameroonian’s confident pre-match comments.

The drama unfolded after Onana claimed Manchester United are “way better” than their upcoming Europa League opponents Lyon. This bold declaration has clearly touched a nerve with Serbian veteran Matic, who didn’t hold back in his scathing response.

What Sparked This Explosive Football Feud?

Manchester United currently find themselves in a nightmare domestic campaign, languishing in 13th place in the Premier League table. However, their European form tells a different story, with the Red Devils maintaining an unbeaten record in the Europa League ahead of Thursday’s quarter-final first leg against Lyon.

Following Sunday’s goalless Manchester derby, Onana expressed confidence about facing the French side, who currently sit fifth in Ligue 1. “It won’t be easy, but we are better than them,” Onana reportedly stated, seemingly dismissing the challenge posed by the French outfit.

Those comments clearly reached Matic, and the former United midfielder’s reaction was nothing short of explosive.

Matic’s Brutal Assessment Leaves No Room for Interpretation

When asked to respond to Onana’s confident pre-match assertion, Matic didn’t mince his words. “You know, I respect everyone but to say that then you need to give the answer,” the Serbian international began, before delivering his knockout blow.

“If you are one of the worst goalkeepers in Man United’s history, you need to take care of what you are talking about,” Matic continued, in comments that have since gone viral across social media platforms.

The veteran midfielder, who represented both Manchester United and Chelsea during his Premier League career, further suggested that such bold statements would only be appropriate coming from United goalkeeping legends.

“If David de Gea said something like that, or Peter Schmeichel, or Edwin van der Sar, okay – they have the right,” stated Matic. “But if you’re one of the statistically worst goalkeepers in Man United’s modern history, then he needs to show that before he says anything. We will see.”

Onana’s Difficult Debut Season Under the Microscope

Since arriving from Inter Milan in summer 2023, Onana’s journey at Old Trafford has been anything but smooth sailing. The Cameroonian goalkeeper has faced persistent criticism following a series of high-profile errors, particularly during the Champions League group stage.

While his shot-stopping abilities have occasionally impressed, consistency has proven elusive for the 28-year-old, whose confidence appears unshaken despite the critical spotlight.

Added Pressure Before Crucial European Showdown

The timing of this war of words couldn’t be more dramatic, with Manchester United preparing for Thursday’s crucial Europa League quarter-final first leg. For a team struggling domestically, European success represents a potential salvation for their troubled season.

The very public criticism from a respected former player like Matic adds another layer of pressure on Onana ahead of what was already a high-stakes fixture. Will the goalkeeper rise to the occasion and silence his critics, or will Lyon make him eat his words?

One thing’s certain – all eyes will be on Manchester United’s number one when he steps between the posts on Thursday night. The stage is set for either redemption or further controversy in what’s quickly becoming one of football’s most unexpected feuds.

A Legacy-Defining Moment for Onana?

For Onana, the challenge is now crystal clear. With his place in Manchester United history being openly questioned by former players, the upcoming Europa League fixtures offer a perfect opportunity to change the narrative surrounding his Old Trafford career.

Whether he can live up to his own confident words remains to be seen, but one thing’s for certain – the footballing world will be watching closely as this drama continues to unfold both on and off the pitch.