Manchester United are bracing for a battle at St. James’ Park, where Newcastle United await them in a high-stakes Premier League clash.
The Guardian have revealed that head coach Ruben Amorim has decided to ‘rest’ Andre Onana for today’s encounter.
Onana’s wife was the victim of a violent street robbery that left the family needing 24-hour protection.
Altay Bayindir is set to finally make his Premier League bow for the Red Devils.
Onana has been an ever-present figure between the sticks since his arrival from Inter Milan in 2023.
The 29-year-old had a night to forget in Lyon, with costly errors leading to both of the French side’s goals.
He looked rooted to the spot as Thiago Almada bent a free-kick past him with little resistance.
Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee brought United back, giving them hope of taking an advantage ahead of the second leg at Old Trafford.
However, disaster struck in stoppage time, as Onana’s blunder proved costly once again.
He fumbled the ball straight to Rayan Cherki, who gladly punished the mistake to seal a crucial draw for Lyon.
Amorim is reportedly set to make another key change to the starting XI, handing teenage sensation Harry Amass his full debut.
Bayindir kept out penalties from Arsenal stars Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz in the FA Cup in January.
Today presents another golden opportunity for Bayindir to prove his worth to Amorim and earn the trust of the Old Trafford faithful.
The 26-year-old has patiently waited in the wings since arriving from Fenerbahce last summer, playing the role of United’s backup keeper.
A strong display today could very well earn Bayindir the nod for the all-important Europa League second leg against Lyon.
The Red Devils are currently placed in the 13th spot in the Premier league table.
With only seven matches left, the Red Devils face an uphill battle just to claw their way into the top half of the league.
