Manchester United faced a frustrating defeat against Arsenal recently, raising questions about their goalkeeper situation. The spotlight has fallen squarely on Altay Bayindir, with fans and analysts questioning whether he is the right choice for matches of such magnitude.
The Decision: From Onana to Bayindir
With first-choice keeper Andre Onana recovering from a hamstring injury, manager Ruben Amorim opted to start Altay Bayindir over Tom Heaton. Despite Onana completing three training sessions, he was deemed unready to play. This caused some controversy, as Tom Heaton was overlooked in favor of Bayindir. Fans were vocal about their preference for Heaton, citing his vast experience.
Bayindir’s Performance Breakdown
Bayindir’s performance against Arsenal left much to be desired. He struggled to command his area, failed to effectively handle corners, and made a critical error by using the wrong glove to attempt a clearance. These missteps brought back memories of his earlier blunders against Tottenham in the Carabao Cup last season, raising consistent concerns about his ability to deal with aerial threats during set-pieces.
It’s worth noting that Bayindir’s tendency to hesitate in high-pressure moments has cost Manchester United dearly, including during Arsenal’s match-winning corner. Many fans believe that Heaton, despite being 39 years old, would have managed the situation with greater composure and authority.
Amorim’s Defense of Bayindir
In a post-match press conference, Amorim staunchly defended Bayindir’s selection, pointing out moments where the Turkish keeper performed admirably in previous games. However, the criticism surrounding his lack of aggression and consistency cannot be ignored. While it’s admirable that Amorim backs his players, perhaps it’s time to rethink giving Bayindir more opportunities in crucial matches.
The Good News: Onana’s Return
Fans can look forward to Andre Onana’s imminent return as he is reportedly on track to start against Fulham at Craven Cottage this weekend. His comeback is expected to bring stability back to United’s goalkeeping department, a much-needed boost after recent disappointments.
What’s Next for Manchester United?
Looking ahead, Amorim may need to reconsider his strategy for cup competitions and explore the possibility of securing a stronger backup goalkeeper. While Bayindir has potential, his current form indicates that he may not yet be ready to handle the demands of Manchester United’s gameplay.
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