Nemanja Matic calls Andre Onana 'one of the worst goalkeepers in Man Utd's history' in BRUTAL response to his claim Red Devils are 'way better' than Lyon

In the buildup to what could be a defining contest for Ruben Amorim's struggling United squad, Onana spoke to the media with conviction about his team’s chances of beating Lyon in the Europa League quarter-finals, with the first leg set to be played in France on Thursday night.

"We all know the importance of this game, we will go there with the winning mentality," he told reporters. "We have to go there and show who we are. If we are focused, stay compact and together and follow the gameplan we will be winning the game. Of course, it’s not going to be easy, but I think we are way better than them."

Onana has faced waves of criticism since arriving at United from Inter Milan due to his inconsistent form. Moreover, with United languishing in 13th place in the Premier League and having won just three of their past 10 matches in all competitions, his remarks were met with scepticism.

Matic, who played at Old Trafford between 2017 and 2022, didn’t hold back when asked about Onana’s remarks. He took issue with the Cameroonian’s confidence, questioning both his record and the appropriateness of his comments.

“I don't know. To say something like that, you need to have courage," the Lyon ace told reporters. "I respect everyone, but I need to answer. When you're one of the worst goalkeepers in Man Utd's history, you need to take care about what you are talking."

Matic added: "If David de Gea, Peter Schmeichel or Van der Sar said that, I will question myself. But if you are statistically one of the worst goalkeepers in Man Utd's modern history, then he needs to show that, before he says so. We will see."

United’s domestic form has been patchy at best, with last Sunday’s goalless draw against Manchester City offering little comfort to fans already frustrated with their lack of consistency. By contrast, Lyon come into this fixture in excellent form, having secured eight wins in their last ten games. The French outfit are riding high on momentum and will be eager to make a statement against a vulnerable United side whose campaign has failed to take off since Amorim's appointment as coach back in November.

The Red Devils’ hopes of qualifying for next season’s Champions League now rest entirely on a successful Europa League campaign, making Thursday’s match even more crucial. Following the European showdown, United face another tough test with a Premier League clash against Newcastle on Sunday. Amorim's side will then host Lyon in the return leg four days later.