Goalkeeper André Onana returns to Manchester United for the crucial Europa League clash against Lyon, confirmed coach Ruben Amorim.
Onana, who was a substitute in the 4-1 defeat against Newcastle United last Sunday, will return to the starting lineup in the return leg at Old Trafford on Thursday.
Onana’s return implies Altay Bayindir’s substitution.
Joshua Zirkzee will not be available for the match against the Ligue 1 team due to a hamstring injury sustained in the match against Newcastle, ruling him out for the rest of the season.
Onana will play tomorrow. I think that, as a coach and former footballer, I try to do things that can help a player in this situation.
Ruben Amorim
Amorim explained that, sometimes, it is necessary to manage the players both physically and mentally, and that it is fundamental that they return to competition.
The coach stated that Onana is ready to play and that the decision not to field him the previous weekend was to give him a rest and allow Bayindir to play.
At a press conference on Wednesday, Amorim was also asked about the possibility of signing a new goalkeeper for next season.
We need to improve in every position on the field, and the goal is the same.
Ruben Amorim
Amorim highlighted that both Onana and Altay have proven their worth, and that each position in the squad will be evaluated.
The 2-2 draw in the first leg against Lyon leaves the tie open.
Zirkzee, who scored a goal in the first leg, will miss the second leg due to a hamstring injury.
Amorim confirmed that Zirkzee will not play again this season, leaving Rasmus Højlund as the only starting forward in the team.
Joshua is out for the rest of the season. He will not play again this season, we are going to prepare him for the next one.
Ruben Amorim
Despite being in the bottom half of the Premier League table, United could secure a trophy and a place in next season’s Champions League if they win the Europa League.
A victory over Lyon would give them the opportunity to face Athletic Club or Rangers in the semi-finals.
Amorim acknowledged that playing in the Champions League would influence the club’s chances in the next transfer market, especially in budgetary terms.
The Champions League can change everything.
Ruben Amorim
The coach also mentioned that, if they don’t qualify for the Champions League, they will have more time to rebuild the team.
