Manchester United Fans React Strongly to Goalkeeper Decision for Derby

Manchester United fans expressed their frustration after manager Ruben Amorim announced that Altay Bayindir will start as goalkeeper in the derby match against Manchester City on March 15, 2024. This decision comes on the heels of United’s disappointing start to the Premier League season, where Bayindir’s previous mistakes have drawn significant criticism from supporters.

The club recently signed young goalkeeper Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp on transfer deadline day, leading many fans to hope that he could provide a solution to the goalkeeping issues that have plagued the team. Bayindir’s blunder in the opening match against Arsenal contributed to a loss, while another error occurred during United’s narrow 3-2 victory over Burnley prior to the international break.

Bayindir Retains Starting Role Amid Criticism

Despite the mounting pressure, Amorim indicated that Lammens is viewed primarily as a long-term investment. Bayindir, who has started all three Premier League matches this season, will continue in goal for the derby. Amorim stated, “We are really pleased with Lammens’ acquisition. He is a goalkeeper with a lot of potential, but right now, we need someone with experience.”

Amorim acknowledged the need for a balance between present performance and future potential. “Altay is going to continue because it’s a different league and country, and we are trying to maintain consistency,” he added, emphasizing that both goalkeepers will compete for the starting position moving forward.

The decision has not been well received by all fans. One fan expressed their disbelief on social media, stating, “This coach is not serious. You chase the players and you bench them on arrival. Amorim will be gone by Christmas.” Another supporter echoed this sentiment, saying, “This is the problem with Amorim—he hesitates to trust new signings and lets their confidence sink!”

However, some fans defended Amorim’s choice, arguing that introducing a young goalkeeper to such a high-pressure match could be detrimental to Lammens’ confidence. “Throwing him in against Manchester City would be an idiotic decision. We all agree Bayindir is not good enough, but we bought Lammens for the long term,” one fan commented.

Onana’s Departure and Injury Concerns

In related news, Andre Onana, who has struggled with his form, has been loaned to Trabzonspor for the season. Amorim stated that the decision was in the best interest of both the player and the club, acknowledging the need for a change. “Sometimes you can have all the quality in the world, but you need to change the environment to return to your level,” he explained.

Injuries are also impacting the Manchester United squad. Players Matheus Cunha, Mason Mount, and Diogo Dalot are sidelined due to various injuries. Cunha was substituted during the Burnley match, while Mount was withdrawn at halftime. Dalot was unable to participate in Portugal’s World Cup qualifying fixtures against Armenia and Hungary.

As Manchester United prepares for this crucial derby, the focus will be on how the goalkeeper situation unfolds and whether Amorim’s choices will pay off in a match that is always filled with intensity and rivalry.