Tensions flared in the lead-up to Manchester United’s Europa League quarter-final clash against Lyon, as a war of words erupted between former United midfielder Nemanja Matic and current goalkeeper Andre Onana.
The heated exchange sparked widespread reactions across the footballing world—and United legend Paul Scholes has now offered his own measured take, siding with neither but pointing out the flaws in both men’s conduct.
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The Flashpoint: Onana’s Comments and Matic’s Scathing Response
Andre Onana, speaking ahead of United’s clash with Lyon, stated confidently: “Lyon are a very good team… but I think we are better than them.” While seemingly harmless to some, the remark struck a nerve with Matic, who fired back with a brutal assessment: “One of the worst goalkeepers in Man United history.”
Onana, refusing to stay silent, issued a composed but pointed rebuttal on social media: “I would never be disrespectful to another club. We know that tomorrow will be a difficult game against a strong opponent. We focus on preparing a performance to make our fans proud. At least I’ve lifted trophies with the greatest club in the world. Some can’t say the same.”
The spat quickly escalated into headline territory, casting a shadow over the match.
Scholes Steps In: Balanced Criticism for Both Players
Paul Scholes, appearing on TNT Sports, refrained from backing either party entirely, instead emphasizing the importance of professionalism.
“I don’t think it was something I would have done, try and provoke a team by saying you are better than them. It’s not wise, but they have to perform,” said the former United midfield maestro.
While critical of Onana’s comments, Scholes also questioned Matic’s response: “Matic overreacted slightly, it was a bit aggressive, but I don’t mind a bit of needle.”
This balanced approach highlighted Scholes’ view that both players had let their emotions override better judgment in the public domain.
Onana’s Struggles in the Spotlight
Scrutiny surrounding Onana has been intensifying, particularly given his high-profile errors since his £47 million switch from Inter Milan in 2023. The Cameroonian has struggled to replicate his form from Italy, where he was lauded for his ball-playing ability and composure.
Against Lyon, the pressure seemed to culminate in a disastrous showing. Thiago Almada’s curling free-kick found the net despite a seemingly routine save opportunity, followed by a parried shot that landed perfectly for Rayan Cherki’s last-minute equaliser.
Scholes didn’t mince words: “He is probably wishing he kept his mouth shut, it is a really bad mistake… I’m not sure what the keeper is trying to do… it’s an awful mistake.”
Regarding the second goal, Scholes added that Onana “needs softer hands” and hinted that United may need to explore options in the summer transfer market.
Carney and the Pressure on Onana
Karen Carney, also speaking on TNT Sports, noted the psychological toll: “I am gutted he’s not starting but Onana has to step up and make sure he comes away with a clean sheet. He went up to check the net and fans were giving him stick; he needs a solid performance to back it up.”
With fans growing increasingly restless, the spotlight is now brighter than ever on Onana, who has conceded 99 goals in 69 Premier League matches while managing just 18 clean sheets—a 26.1% rate. Statistically, he holds the worst clean sheet percentage and second-worst save rate among United keepers with over 900 minutes played since 2003–04, trailing only Anders Lindegaard.
United’s Woes and Lyon’s Rise
The unrest in the dressing room and inconsistent performances on the pitch have reflected in Manchester United’s current standing—13th in the Premier League and facing their worst finish since the competition’s rebranding. New manager Ruben Amorim now faces a daunting task as cracks continue to appear in squad chemistry and tactical execution.
Meanwhile, Lyon are enjoying a far more promising campaign. Sitting fifth in Ligue 1, they remain in contention for a Champions League place despite ongoing concerns regarding financial stability.
As the fallout from the Onana-Matic spat lingers, United’s future in Europe may hinge on how the squad responds to this episode. Scholes summed up the moment aptly—not with bias, but with a call for focus and maturity.
“A goalkeeper is something to think of, but, budget-wise, where are the priorities? Can they get away with it? A goalkeeper is a very important part of a team but he has not been quite good enough, maybe he needs some competition… He is capable… at Inter he was good… It hasn’t been great. [There are] a lot of problems for Amorim and he knows that.”
The message is clear: words may sting, but it’s results that matter. For Onana, Matic, and Manchester United, the only way forward is to let performance silence the noise.
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FAQs
What did Paul Scholes say about the Andre Onana and Nemanja Matic spat?
Paul Scholes stated that both Onana and Matic were at fault, calling Onana’s comments unwise and Matic’s response an overreaction.
Why did Nemanja Matic criticize Andre Onana?
Matic slammed Onana for claiming Manchester United were better than Lyon, labeling him “one of the worst goalkeepers in Man United history.”
How did Andre Onana respond to Nemanja Matic’s comments?
Onana defended himself on social media, saying he never disrespects other clubs and noted, “At least I’ve lifted trophies with the greatest club in the world.”
What mistakes did Andre Onana make against Lyon?
Onana was at fault for both Lyon goals—failing to stop Thiago Almada’s free-kick and parrying a shot to Rayan Cherki for the equalizer.
Is Manchester United planning to replace Andre Onana?
Paul Scholes suggested that United may consider signing a new goalkeeper, but budget priorities could influence that decision.
