Altay Bayindir to Receive Opportunities Amid Ongoing Andre Onana Scrutiny

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Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has stated that goalkeeper Altay Bayindir will be given opportunities amid ongoing scrutiny of Andre Onana’s performances.

During the summer, United made Onana one of the most expensive goalkeepers in history with a £47 million transfer from Inter, reuniting him with former Ajax boss Ten Hag.

The expectation was that Onana’s ability to play with the ball at his feet would elevate United tactically, but consistent mistakes with his hands have presented unexpected challenges.

Following a subpar performance contributing to a 3-3 draw against Galatasaray on Wednesday, questions have arisen about Onana’s position.

This has led to speculation about whether backup goalkeeper Bayindir, who joined from Fenerbahce on the summer transfer deadline day and is yet to make his debut, deserves an opportunity.

Ten Hag expressed satisfaction with the goalkeeping group, including Andre, Altay, and Tom Heaton. He emphasized their collective good performances and the need for them to push each other. Specifically praising Altay, Ten Hag affirmed their contentment with the goalkeeping options at the club.

“He gets used to Premier League, he gets used to European football, which is tough when you are coming from Turkey, but we are very pleased with the process. He is doing very well. He has to be patient but if he works well, if he keeps his progress, he will get his chances and he has to take this.”

Andre Onana has featured in every Manchester United game across the Premier League, Champions League, and Carabao Cup in the 2023/24 season.

Typically, the Carabao Cup is an opportunity for secondary goalkeepers, as seen in the previous season when Martin Dubravka and Tom Heaton had chances in the earlier rounds. However, Altay Bayindir, who has been on the bench for every United game, has yet to make an appearance.

The situation may change in the New Year, particularly if Onana participates in the Africa Cup of Nations with Cameroon. Onana didn’t play international football for nine months after being sent home from the 2022 World Cup, reportedly due to a disagreement with coach Rigobert Song.

However, he was recalled to the squad in September for the final AFCON qualifier and has been part of the team each month since.

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