Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee has come to the defense of goalkeeper Andre Onana following heavy criticism after United’s dramatic 2-2 draw with Lyon in the Europa League quarter-final.
The spotlight turned harshly on Onana after two costly errors allowed Lyon to come back and level the tie. First, he failed to stop Thiago Almada’s free-kick, and later parried a shot into the path of Rayan Cherki, who capitalized in stoppage time.
The match had been heated even before kick-off due to an exchange of words between Onana and Lyon’s Nemanja Matic. Onana had claimed United were “way better” than their French opponents, prompting Matic to fire back, branding him “one of the worst goalkeepers in Man United’s history.”
Despite the backlash, Zirkzee, who put United ahead with a late goal in the 88th minute, said the entire squad stands behind Onana.
“We’re one team,” Zirkzee emphasized. “It’s ridiculous to single someone out for making mistakes. We win together and lose together.”
United’s manager Ruben Amorim echoed similar sentiments, stating, “One player makes a mistake, we all do.”
Looking ahead, United will travel to Newcastle on Sunday before the return leg at Old Trafford next week. Zirkzee is optimistic that playing in front of a home crowd will tilt the balance in United’s favor.
“It hurts to concede late like that, but our focus now is on the next game. At home, with the fans behind us, we believe we can finish the job. Lyon is a good side, but we want this win more,” he added.
After a disappointing Premier League season, the Europa League remains United’s only realistic chance at silverware this year.
“We have to win it,” Zirkzee concluded. “There’s no option. It’s all or nothing.”
Do you think Manchester United can overcome Lyon at Old Trafford? Share your thoughts in the comments and follow NIGPOST for more football updates!
Leave a Reply