Peter Schmeichel Defends Andre Onana Amidst Criticism
Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel has defended goalkeeper Andre Onana, who has been under fire for a series of errors this season.
The Cameroonian shot-stopper has struggled during his second campaign at Old Trafford, facing criticism for mistakes in the Europa League quarter-final against Lyon. Former United midfielder Nemanja Matic even labelled him “one of the worst goalkeepers in the club’s history.”
Onana was dropped for the Premier League match against Newcastle in favour of Altay Bayindir, but the Turkish keeper made his own error, leading to United’s 4-1 loss and Onana’s return to the starting lineup.
Despite the pressure, Schmeichel, who won five Premier League titles and the Champions League with United, believes the criticism is unfair. Speaking to talkSPORT, Schmeichel said, “It’s been a difficult year for everyone, and singling out any player would be very wrong.”
He explained that the unique pressures of playing for Manchester United make it harder than playing for other clubs. “Everything you do in a game of football will be reported everywhere in the world,” Schmeichel said. “If you make a mistake, it becomes global news.”
Schmeichel emphasised that the mental toughness required to play for United is immense. “Other clubs might see your mistake in the newspaper, but it won’t be discussed for long. But at United, it’s all over the media, and that’s a different level of pressure.”
United have struggled in the Premier League, sitting in 14th place, just two points above the relegation zone. They face Bournemouth on Sunday before a crucial Europa League semi-final against Athletic Bilbao.
