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As Manchester United gear up for their high-stakes Europa League quarter-final against Lyon, the build-up has been dominated not just by tactics and team news, but by a fiery exchange between United’s goalkeeper Andre Onana and former Red Devil, now Lyon midfielder, Nemanja Matic. It all began when Onana, speaking confidently about his side’s chances said, "We are way better than Lyon." His remarks were meant to project belief in United’s quality, but they immediately sparked controversy and headlines across Europe. Onana later tried to soften the impact, insisting he meant no disrespect toward Lyon by saying, "I have great respect for them, but I believe in my team. We are Manchester United; we always fight to win."
Adding fuel to the fire, Onana posted a defiant message on social media, sharing a photo of himself lifting the FA Cup with United, captioning it, "At least I've lifted trophies with the greatest club in the world. Some can't say the same." Matic, who enjoyed a five-year stint at Old Trafford, clearly took Onana's comments personally, defending Lyon's honour and setting the tone for what promises to be an intense encounter.
Steamy clash waits in Europa League amid comments from both players
Nemanja Matic, never one to hold back and swiftly hit back at the Cameroonian goalkeeper’s bravado. Speaking to reporters, Matic fired, "If you’re one of the worst goalkeepers in Manchester United's history, then you need to take care of what you are talking about." The Serbian midfielder didn’t stop there. He continued by saying, "If David De Gea, Peter Schmeichel, or Edwin van der Sar said that, then I would question myself. But coming from Onana? No."
As the war of words intensifies, attention now turns to the pitch. Manchester United, despite an inconsistent domestic season, will look to channel Onana’s confidence as they aim for European glory under Ruben Amorim. Lyon, rejuvenated under their new management and backed by the experienced Matic, will be eager to prove doubters wrong, especially those in Manchester.
