Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana and Olympique Lyon midfielder Nemanja Matic are providing an exciting sub-plot for the UEFA Europa League clash between both teams on Thursday in France.
The row between both players started when Onana had suggested that the Ligue 1 side are a “very good team” but that “I think we are better than them” despite the Red Devils being 13th on the Premier League table while Lyon are fifth in the French top-flight.
Matic did not take Onana’s comments lightly and hit back on Wednesday afternoon in a shocking statement by claiming that the Cameroon international is one of the worst goalkeepers in the club’s history.
“To say that, you need to have cover to say something like that. Onana, I respect everyone, but to say that, then you need to give an answer,” Matic said. “If you are one of the worst goalkeepers in Man. United history, you need to take care what you are talking about.”
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Matic added, “If David de Gea, or Peter Schmeichel, or (Edwin) Van der Sar said that, then I will question myself. But if you are one of the statistically worst goalkeepers in Man. United modern history, he needs to show that (they’re better) before he says.”
Afterwards, Onana took to social media to respond to Matic’s words. “I would never be disrespectful to another club,” he said.
He added, “We know that (Thursday) 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.”
Fans and neutrals will have their eyes on the fixture, as both Onana and Matic’s statements will only add fuel to the fire ahead of the clash.